Textron Aviation has completed a major programme milestone for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 flight test programme with the successful first flight of a second test article, P1. Testing on the P1 aircraft will focus on avionics, human factors and interiors. The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet is designed to keep pilots a step ahead in the cockpit by offering the next-gen Garmin G3000 Prime avionics along with the most standard features in its class.

“This achievement continues the forward momentum of the CJ4 Gen3 programme and reflects the dedication and expertise of our team in designing, certifying and delivering the best aircraft for our customers,” says Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programmes. “By adding this test article to our flight test programme, we are continuing rigorous testing as we work toward certification.”

Piloted by James Bearman and Corey Eckhart, the three hour and 29-minute initial flight centred on general avionics and system evaluations. The aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 45,000ft and a maximum speed of 305kts. Bearman said it performed to programme expectations, with a smooth and seamless flight.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet was announced during the 2024 NBAA-BACE and the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2026. The P1 test aircraft joins the programme following the CJ4 Gen3 prototype, which completed its first flight in 2024. As a next-gen business jet, the CJ4 Gen3 builds upon the legendary history of the Citation family, which has long been recognised as the most popular line of business jets worldwide.

The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the largest Citation aircraft in the light jet segment. The single-pilot certified aircraft combines superior speed, range and operating economics compared to larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner/operators or corporate missions. The CJ4 is valued by customers around the world for luxury and productivity, as well as a wide range of missions including air ambulance, maritime patrol, search and rescue and aerial survey.

The CJ4 Gen3 brings a new level of expectations to the world of light business jets, with the most standard features in its class. It is the first business jet announced with the inclusion of the all-new Garmin G3000 Prime next-gen avionics suite. Prime improves the pilot experience, with streamlined touchscreens and smoother flight deck flow, reducing pilot workload. The advanced avionics hardware provides faster, more responsive processing and increased connectivity, while software-based updates help owners and operators easily prepare their aircraft for the future. Additionally, the CJ4 Gen3 includes Garmin Autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland, further enhancing operational efficiency.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is expected to feature a maximum range of 2,165nm and a maximum cruise speed of 451kts. With seating for up to 11 occupants and a 6,930-pound useful load, the aircraft offers superior performance and versatility.