Cessna's Citation CJ3 continues to record important milestones as it prepares for first flight.

Recent achievements include the installation of the CJ3's vertical and horizontal stabilizers in late January and engine installation in early February. The CJ3 prototype airframe is now complete.
"Operation of the engines and avionics is an important milestone in any new aircraft program," said Joe Hepburn, CJ3 Program Manager.

"To date, we have three Williams International FJ44-3A engines and two complete Collins Pro Line 21 avionic suites in-house. We've already begun engine and avionics systems tests and have had great success. The engine and avionics incorporate new features, and we're confident that CJ3 customers will appreciate their advanced technology." 

Introduction of the CJ3 at the 2002 NBAA convention marked an expansion of the already successful CitationJet family, which now includes the CJ1, CJ2 and CJ3. The first flight of the CJ3 prototype is anticipated in the second quarter of 2003, with type certification in the second quarter 2004. First customer deliveries are expected in the third quarter 2004. Cessna has received orders for over 160 CJ3s.

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