Cessna has announced that the prototype airframe for its CJ3 is now complete. Recent accomplishments, as it prepares for its first flight, include installation of the vertical and horizontal stabilisers and engine.

CJ3 programme manager Joe Hepburn said: “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 first flight of the CJ3 prototype is anticipated in the second quarter of 2003, with type certification in the second quarter of 2004. Cessna has received orders for over 160 CJ3s, with first customer deliveries expected in the third quarter of 2004.