Textron Aviation has announced the successful maiden flight of its Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft, which took to the skies for the first time in early October. This significant milestone coincided with the unveiling of three new products in the Gen3 line at the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas. The new additions include the Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3, and CJ4 Gen3, all of which build on the legacy of the Citation family, renowned for being the most popular line of business jets globally.
The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3, designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE), aims to set a new standard in business aviation. Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Programs, stated, “The first flight of the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft marks a major step forward in the flight test program, paving the way for future certification and delivery to customers.” Hearne further explained that the flight test pilots reported the aircraft performed exceptionally well, meeting the company’s performance expectations.
The prototype, piloted by senior test pilot Corey Eckhart and chief test pilot Ed Wenninger, took off from Textron Aviation’s west Wichita campus at Eisenhower National Airport. During the 1 hour and 47-minute flight, the team conducted evaluations of the new avionics systems, propulsion, environmental controls, and flight control systems.
Notably, the Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the first business jet to feature the all-new Garmin G3000 PRIME next-generation avionics suite. This advanced system enhances pilot control with a streamlined touchscreen interface, improving flight deck flow and reducing pilot workload. The CJ4 Gen3 also incorporates Garmin Autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland, further enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
As the testing program continues, the focus will shift to evaluating aircraft systems, engine performance, avionics, and overall capabilities. The CJ4 Gen3 prototype is anticipated to enter into service in 2026, marking a significant development in the business jet sector.
The unveiling of these next-generation jets and the successful first flight of the CJ4 Gen3 prototype underscore Textron Aviation’s commitment to innovation in aviation technology. The company aims to meet the evolving needs of business aviation, ensuring that its aircraft remain at the forefront of performance, safety, and efficiency.
Textron Aviation’s presence at NBAA-BACE not only highlights the launch of these new models but also reinforces its position as a leader in the business aviation industry. With a long-standing reputation for quality and reliability, the Citation family continues to evolve, providing customers with state-of-the-art solutions for their aviation needs.
As the industry anticipates the future of business jets, Textron Aviation’s latest offerings promise to deliver enhanced experiences for pilots and passengers alike, making the CJ4 Gen3 and its counterparts exciting additions to the business aviation landscape.
