Textron Aviation unveils three new Cessna Citation variants
October 22, 2024
Textron Aviation has unveiled the latest additions to its Cessna Citation family of light jets: the M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen 3 and CJ4 Gen 3, expected to enter service in 2026 and 2027.
The latest three variants of the Cessna Citation will “carry on the iconic legacy of the trusted Citation brand while introducing cutting-edge advancements and technology,” explained CEO and president Ron Draper, adding: “With the inclusion of revolutionary Garmin Emergency Autoland technology, as well as all-new Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics in the CJ4 Gen3, these aircraft promise to elevate the flying experience”.
The addition of the Garmin Autoland safety feature (alongside fully integrated Garmin Autothrottles) to all three models “brings even greater peace of mind to the journey, for both pilots and passenger,” explained Cessna. Draper described the Autoland’s inclusion across the entire Citation family lineup as “a monumental leap in aviation technology,” with existing autothrottle-equipped M2 Gen2 or CJ3 Gen2 aircraft to receive a service bulletin “about the opportunity to incorporate Garmin Emergency Autoland into their aircraft”.
The CJ4 Gen3 (Cessna’s largest Citation offering in the light jet segment) is expected to enter service in 2026 under the 525 type rating and is the first platform to have announced the inclusion of the new next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics suite. This includes a new procedure selector, enhanced primary displays, 40% larger secondary display units and fewer overall buttons.
Meanwhile, the CJ3 Gen3 – set to enter service the following year – will feature a Garmin G3000-equipped flight deck, with Garmin Autothrottles, optional Enhanced Vision System and Garmin Emergency Autoland capabilities also supported. Also set to enter service in 2027 is the M2 Gen3, featuring new wireless charging upgrades, USB-A and -C ports at each set, and a marginally expanded cockpit (three inches at the co-pilot’s position).
