The Cessna Citation Longitude has achieved provisional type certification from the FAA. This allows operators to begin Citation Longitude flight training in preparation for deliveries early in 2019 and paves the way for the programme's final phase of certification.

“From an unmatched cabin experience to its commanding performance, the Citation Longitude truly sets a new standard for the business aviation industry,” says Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation. “Our focus remains on equipping our customers with this revolutionary aircraft, and achieving this milestone is a pivotal step as we complete the final phase of the programme.”

Textron says activity and interest in the aircraft remain strong as customers experience its capabilities first-hand. The Longitude recently completed a world tour, circumnavigating the globe and demonstrating its performance figures along the way.

During testing, the aircraft completed more than 1,650 flights and accumulated more than 4,050 hours. The Longitude flight test programme, including functional and reliability testing, has now been completed, and production is underway in Textron Aviation's manufacturing.

With a range of 3,500 nm and full fuel payload of 1,600 pounds (726 kg), the Longitude is designed to deliver the quietest cabin in the super-midsize class, a low cabin altitude (5,950 feet/1,814 metres), more standard features and a comfortable, bespoke interior. With seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat, the Longitude features a stand-up, six-foot tall flat-floor cabin. A standard double-club configuration delivers what the airframer says is the most legroom in its class. Fully berthable seats are designed and manufactured in-house and a walk-in baggage compartment is accessible throughout the entire flight. The cabin's technology enables passengers to manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device, while high speed internet maximises in-flight productivity.

Textron claims the clean-sheet design and integrated technology of the Longitude will bring customers the lowest ownership cost in its class. It features the latest version of the Garmin G5000 flight deck and is powered by FADEC-equipped Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines with fully integrated autothrottles with envelope protection. With Garmin's new Head-up Display (GHD 2100) and enhanced vision capability, the Longitude facilitates eyes-up flying. The cockpit has been conceived to offer easier access and an ergonomic design that fully focuses on crew comfort and efficiency.

“No super-midsize business jet offers more range, greater payload or higher cruise speed at a lower expected total ownership cost. The Longitude is designed to feature the longest maintenance intervals in its class, 800 hours or 18 months, which is expected to make it the most cost-effective to operate in its category," says Textron.