Jet Awarded Type Certification After a 1,000-Hour Test Campaign

Two and a half years and 1,000 flight hours after its unveiling captured the attention of business aviators across the world, Textron’s Cessna Citation Ascend has earned FAA type certification. The first few jets have already rolled off the production line and are expected to enter service later this year.

“The Citation Ascend’s successful flight test program reflects our teams’ expertise in obtaining FAA certification while designing and delivering the best aviation experience for our customers,” said Chris Hearne, Senior VP of Engineering & Programs. “We sought our customers’ feedback, and the result is a business jet that offers customers the latest innovations in performance, productivity and efficiency.”

The Ascend is the latest model in Textron’s long-running midsize jet line, positioned as the successor to the Citation XLS Gen2. It is marketed to be more efficient, use upgraded avionics, and offer an overall more refined passenger experience.

The aircraft features a redesigned cockpit built around Garmin’s G5000 avionics suite, providing streamlined single-pilot operations with the works: autothrottles, synthetic vision, and high-tech weather radar capabilities. Textron says the avionics integration reduces workload and aligns with the automation standards seen in newer large-cabin business jets.

Cabin improvements are a major selling point for the Ascend. The interior draws heavily from the Latitude and Longitude series, featuring a flat floor, larger windows, and fully adjustable seating for up to twelve passengers. Optional upgrades include high-speed Wi-Fi and cabin management through a personal device interface.

Power comes from a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, producing 4,213 pounds of thrust each and equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC). Textron reports that the engines deliver better climb performance, higher cruise speeds, and reduced fuel burn compared to previous XLS variants. The aircraft’s range is estimated at 1,900 nautical miles with four passengers and reserves.

With FAA certification complete, Textron is targeting a tentative entry-to-service date later this year.

FMI: www.txtav.com