Manufacturer Unveils 3rd Generation of Light Jets

Textron Aviation unveiled its third generation of light jets this past week, starting just a day before the National Business Aviation Association’s annual Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) kicked off in Las Vegas. These jets are the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3, and CJ4 Gen3.

The eight-seat M2 Gen 3 has a maximum range of 1,550 nm and supports payloads up to 1,510 lbs. It serves as an entry-level jet with several comfort and productivity upgrades, like wireless charging, USB-A and USB-C ports at each seat, and a slightly expanded cockpit.

The new Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 is designed for slightly longer hauls, with a 2,040 nm range and a 2,135 lb maximum payload. It fits up to 10 occupants.

The largest of the lineup is the CJ4 Gen3. It has 11 seats and can fly 2,165 nm straight carrying up to 2,200 lbs of payload. It aims to lower operating costs by 10% compared to competitors.

All three Citation mockups feature Autoland Technology. In the event of pilot incapacitation, this system takes control of the aircraft, informs ATC of an emergency, chooses a flight path, avoids terrain and weather, lands the aircraft, and shuts down the engines. 

“As the world's first certified system of its kind, Autoland offers not just an advancement in automated flight capabilities but a profound enhancement in passenger and pilot peace of mind,” commented Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron.

The Cessna CJ4 Gen 3 also utilizes the next-gen G3000 PRIME avionics suite. This has multi-touch technology, a new procedure selector for approach transitions, a flat menu interface, interactive slide-outs for engine indications, and 40% larger secondary display units with Linked View to primary displays.

The Citations are all currently in development, though the CJ4 Gen3 has already demonstrated a successful first flight. It is slated to enter service in 2026, with the M2 Gen3 and CJ3 Gen3 coming in 2027. Once certification is complete for these aircraft, owners of CJ3 Gen3 or Citation M2 Gen2 with autothrottle will have the opportunity to install Emergency Land in their jets.

FMI: www.textronaviation.com