The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3, Citation CJ3 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3 programmes are advancing Textron’s next-generation light jet portfolio toward FAA certification. The CJ4 Gen3 and M2 Gen3 are currently in the flight test phase of development.

All three light jets will feature Garmin Emergency Autoland, and the CJ4 Gen3 also boasts Garmin G3000 Prime avionics.

“The Citation CJ4 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3 flight test milestones reflect the disciplined progress our teams are making as we bring next-generation capability to the Citation light jet lineup,” says Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programmes. “Based on customer feedback, the Gen3s bring new levels of confidence and an elevated experience to pilots worldwide while providing owners and passengers with the performance, comfort and productivity they expect from a Citation.”

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 programme has accumulated more than 880 flight test hours across two test articles. Recently completed testing includes human factors simulator tests and winglet certification tests for stalls, handling qualities, take off and landing performance. The aircraft continues toward expected FAA certification this year.

The Citation CJ3 Gen3 programme is expected to achieve first flight soon, as it advances through its certification programme toward its expected entry into service of 2027.

With nearly 20 flight test hours completed following the recent first flight, the Citation M2 Gen3 is also expected to enter into service in 2027. As the programme kicks off its flight test phase, the team is currently focused on developing the runway centreline tracking and brake tuning of Garmin Emergency Autoland.