Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft takes flight, propelling the program into advanced testing

LAS VEGAS (October 21, 2024) – Textron Aviation today announced that its Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft took to the skies for the first time in early October. The announcement of this milestone flight follows the company’s unveiling today of three new Gen3 products to its Citation light jet family at the National Business Aviation Association - Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas. These next-generation business jets -- the Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 -- build upon the legacy of the Citation family, which has long been recognized as the most popular line of business jets worldwide.   

The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company. 

“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,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering & Programs. “Our flight test pilots reported that the aircraft flew well and performed to the levels we anticipated. The program will now move into a rigorous testing phase, ensuring the aircraft meets the highest performance standards.” 

Piloted by senior test pilot Corey Eckhart and chief test pilot Ed Wenninger, the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft, powered by two Williams International FJ44-4A turbofan engines, took off from the company’s west Wichita campus at Eisenhower National Airport. The team evaluated the new avionics systems, along with the propulsion, environmental and flight control systems, during the 1 hour and 47-minute flight. 

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the first business jet to announce inclusion of the all-new Garmin G3000 PRIME next-generation avionics suite. PRIME brings exceptional control to the pilot experience, with a streamlined touchscreen and smoother flight deck flow, reducing pilot workload. Additionally, the CJ4 Gen3 includes Garmin Autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland, further enhancing operational efficiency. 

The CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft will continue in the testing program as the team’s focus turns to aircraft systems, engine, avionics and overall performance. The aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2026. 

The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the largest Citation aircraft in the light jet segment. The single-pilot certified aircraft combines superior speed, range and operating economics compared to larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner/operators or corporate missions. The CJ4 is valued by customers around the world for luxury and productivity, as well as a wide range of missions including air ambulance, maritime patrol, search and rescue and aerial survey.  

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is expected to feature a maximum range of 2,165 nm and a maximum payload of 2,200 pounds. With seating for up to 11 occupants and a 1,040-pound baggage capacity, the aircraft offers superior performance and versatility.   

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We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight.    

For more information, visit www.txtav.com  |  www.defense.txtav.com  |  www.scorpionjet.com.    

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.    

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