Cessna is bringing out a new entry-level business jet – the Citation Mustang. The company says it is designed to fill a void in the turbine aircraft market. Said a spokesman: “With two turbofan engines, the Mustang will provide more speed, range and altitude capability than currently offered by any single or multi-engine piston or turboprop aircraft.”

The Mustang will offer a cruise speed of 340 knots, and maximum operating altitude of 41,000 feet. It will incorporate an avionics system that includes large displays, FMS and situational awareness. The Mustang’s constant cross section fuselage encompasses a 300 cubic feet interior that will accommodate two pilots and four passengers in a club configuration, as well as external baggage capacity.

Russ Meyer, Cessna chairman and ceo said: “We have been proud to announce many exciting new Citations over the years, but the Mustang is the most significant of all in terms of broadening the base of the business jet market.

“Thanks to a combination of efficient airframe design and new technology in both propulsion and avionics, we are able to offer exceptionally impressive perfor-mance at a price that is $1.5 million less than the lowest priced business jet on the market today. The Citation Mustang is an affordable upgrade for more than 12,000 individuals and companies that operate cabin class piston twins and turboprops.”

Priced at $2,295,000 in 2002 dollars, a preferential price and preferred delivery position has been announced for agreements signed by December 31, 2002, which include a $10,000 deposit.

Cessna anticipates type certification in mid-2006 with first customer deliveries in the fourth quarter 2006. The Mustang’s engine and avionics manufacturer have not yet been announced.

Meanwhile, the company has also set in motion plans for a CJ3. The aircraft will incorporates the features of the CJ2 while also providing a longer cabin and tailcone; new Williams International FJ44-3A engines; and advanced Collins avionics. Said Roger Whyte, senior vp of marketing: “By keeping the best selling features of the CitationJet series and adding more comfort, speed and range, the CJ3 will be economical to purchase and efficient to operate.

“The dual channel FADEC controlled FJ44-3A engines provide 2,780 pounds of thrust. This gives 14% more takeoff thrust and 12% more cruise thrust than the FJ44-2C, the Williams International engine used in the CJ2. The engines utilise next generation component aerodynamics, and a new compound sweep, wide chord fan that contributes to the increased thrust output, while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency.”

Designed for single pilot operation, the maximum cruise speed is 417 knots at 33,000 feet. With two pilots, full fuel, four passengers and baggage, the CJ3 offers an IFR range of 1,664nm and a VFR range of 1,900nm. Service ceiling is 45,000 feet and the maximum gross takeoff weight is 13,870 lbs. The time to climb directly to 45,000 feet at maximum gross takeoff weight is 35 minutes.

The CJ3 is priced at $5,795,000 in 2002 dollars. The first flight of the 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.