Textron Aviation has received an order from Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) for one special mission Cessna Citation Longitude and two special mission Cessna Citation Latitude jets. The aircraft will be fitted with special flight inspection calibration equipment and used by the DHMI (General Directorate of State Airports Authority) in Turkey to inspect regional airport navigation aids.

“Textron Aviation is honoured, once again, to be selected as the aircraft of choice for the critical mission of ensuring the integrity of the airways that constitute the national airspace of Turkey,” says vice president, special mission sales Bob Gibbs. “The Longitude and Latitude continue the long legacy of Cessna Citation flight inspection aircraft in service by the DHMI, while providing additional capability and performance for its missions.”

DHMI began using two Cessna Citation V aircraft for flight inspections in 1993, which were replaced by Cessna Citation XLS aircraft in 2009.

The clean-sheet design of the Longitude integrates the latest technology throughout the aircraft, bringing customers lower direct operating cost. Powered by FADEC-equipped Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines with fully integrated autothrottles with envelope protection, the Longitude offers maintenance intervals of 800 hours/18 months, Textron Aviation maintenance and diagnostic systems (AReS). The spacious cockpit incorporates 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 direct operating cost.

The Latitude, with a four-passenger range of 2,700 nm (5,000 km) at high-speed cruise, is set apart from the competition by its combination of comfort and efficiency. The aircraft's class-leading take off field length of 3,580 ft provides operators with greater range out of short fields. Inside, the Latitude offers an unrivalled cabin experience featuring the most open, spacious, bright and refined cabin environment in its category. With a flat floor and six feet of cabin height, innovation abounds with exceptional features designed throughout the aircraft.