Cessna’s Citation Sovereign production assembly line is nearing completion. Of the 17 stations that make up the line, 13 are now fully operational.

The remaining four stations will be completed as the first aircraft is ready for the next position. Currently, Sovereign serial numbers 003 through 012 are in various stages of assembly.

New production tooling and lean manufacturing processes have been used to establish the line.

A spokesperson said: “In essence, this tooling allows Cessna to build Sovereigns from the exterior shell inward.”

The Citation Sovereign programme is expected to complete FAA certification by the fourth quarter of 2003.

Currently, three conformed Sovereign aircraft are in the flight test programme and have accumulated over 1,200 hours in 600 development and certification flights.

First deliveries will be taking place in 2004.