Business Aviation
Textron Aviation Unveils Cessna Citation Ascend Business Jet in 2025
Textron Aviation launches the Cessna Citation Ascend with Pratt & Whitney PW545D engines, advanced avionics, and sustainable fuel capability for 2025.
The unveiling of the Cessna Citation Ascend by Textron Aviation at the 2025 National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Las Vegas marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of midsize business jets. As the latest addition to the renowned Citation family, the Ascend not only advances the legacy of the 560XL series but also introduces a range of new technologies and features that reflect the shifting priorities of both operators and passengers in the business aviation sector.
This new jet, powered by RTX’s Pratt & Whitney PW545D engines, promises enhanced performance, improved efficiency, and a more comfortable cabin experience. The collaboration between Textron Aviation and Pratt & Whitney Canada is a testament to decades of partnership, aiming to set new standards in reliability and innovation. The Ascend is poised to enter service in 2025, pending FAA certification, and has already captured industry attention with its design and capabilities.
The significance of this debut extends beyond the aircraft itself. It signals broader trends in aviation, including the adoption of sustainable fuels, the integration of advanced avionics, and the increasing emphasis on passenger comfort and operational efficiency. As the business jet market continues to evolve, the Citation Ascend stands as a clear example of manufacturers responding to the demands of a changing industry.
The Cessna Citation Ascend boasts a maximum cruise speed of 441 knots and a range of 1,900 nautical miles with four passengers aboard, positioning it competitively within the midsize jet category. Its takeoff field length of 3,660 feet allows for greater flexibility in airport selection, which is critical for business travelers seeking direct access to a wide range of destinations.
One of the most notable advancements is the integration of the twin Pratt & Whitney PW545D engines. These engines, the latest and most powerful in the PW545 series, are rated at approximately 4,200 pounds of thrust. Their design incorporates a more efficient high-pressure compressor, an improved single-stage high-pressure turbine module, and an advanced exhaust mixer. These features collectively contribute to reduced fuel consumption and lower noise emissions, addressing both operational cost concerns and environmental considerations.
The aircraft’s first flight took place in June of the previous year, and by September 2025, the first production model had rolled out of Textron’s Wichita, Kansas factory. The Ascend is currently in the final stages of FAA certification, with over 1,000 flight test hours completed across two test articles. NetJets, a leading fractional jet ownership company, has been announced as the launch customer, indicating strong market confidence in the new model.
“We asked our customers what they wanted in this iconic aircraft, and our teams worked to bring their vision for the Citation Ascend to life.”, Lannie O’Bannion, Textron’s Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing
The Citation Ascend introduces a flat-floor cabin to the Excel/XLS line for the first time, enhancing legroom and overall passenger comfort. The standard configuration accommodates nine passengers, with options to increase capacity to twelve. This design responds directly to customer feedback, emphasizing the growing demand for spacious and flexible cabin environments in business jets.
Attention to connectivity and convenience is evident in the provision of 19 USB charging ports and three universal power outlets throughout the cabin. These features cater to modern travelers’ needs for constant connectivity and device charging, which are increasingly seen as essential rather than optional amenities. The Ascend also benefits from design cues taken from larger Citation models such as the Longitude and Latitude, ensuring a cohesive and premium feel across the product line. Enhanced soundproofing, improved lighting, and customizable interior options further contribute to a refined in-flight experience.
The inclusion of a flat-floor cabin and multiple charging options demonstrates Textron Aviation’s commitment to passenger-centric design in the Citation Ascend.
The cockpit of the Citation Ascend is equipped with the Garmin G5000 avionics suite, completing the transition to Garmin systems across the entire Citation product line. This suite includes advanced features such as autothrottle technology, which reduces pilot workload and enhances operational safety.
Autothrottle, a system previously available only on larger jets, automatically manages engine power settings based on flight conditions, contributing to smoother and more efficient operations. The integration of this technology in a midsize jet reflects the industry’s move toward greater automation and pilot support.
Other notable avionics enhancements include improved situational awareness tools, comprehensive flight management capabilities, and streamlined maintenance diagnostics. These advancements not only improve the pilot experience but also contribute to reduced operating costs and increased dispatch reliability.
The PW545D engine is central to the Citation Ascend’s performance gains. As the most powerful variant in the PW545 series, it delivers enhanced thrust while incorporating several technological improvements. The engine features a more efficient high-pressure compressor and a single-stage high-pressure turbine module, both of which contribute to better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Additionally, the advanced exhaust mixer reduces noise, making the aircraft more suitable for operations at airports with strict noise regulations. The incorporation of Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) technology simplifies engine management, allowing for more precise and efficient control while reducing pilot workload.
The engine’s design also prioritizes reliability and ease of maintenance. With a time between overhauls (TBO) of up to 6,000 hours for eligible customers, the PW545D offers operators the potential for lower lifecycle costs and increased aircraft availability.
In response to growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, the PW545D engine is certified to operate on blends of up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This capability supports the business aviation sector’s broader efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and align with global sustainability goals. During its debut at the NBAA convention, the Citation Ascend arrived powered by sustainable aviation fuel, underscoring Textron Aviation’s commitment to environmentally responsible operations. While SAF adoption across the industry is still in its early stages, the Ascend’s compatibility with these fuels positions it for long-term relevance as sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor in aircraft selection.
The PW500 engine family, to which the PW545D belongs, has logged over 27 million flight hours across more than 5,300 engines produced. This legacy of reliability provides a strong foundation for the Ascend’s operational expectations and market appeal.
The PW545D engine’s ability to run on 50% SAF and its extended TBO reflect a forward-looking approach to both sustainability and operational efficiency.
The launch of the Citation Ascend has been met with positive reception from both operators and industry analysts. NetJets’ selection as the launch customer is particularly noteworthy, given the company’s reputation for rigorous evaluation and high standards in fleet selection.
Textron Aviation’s approach, soliciting direct feedback from customers and integrating their preferences into the Ascend’s design, demonstrates a shift toward more customer-driven innovation in business aviation. Enhanced comfort, operational flexibility, and advanced technology are increasingly seen as baseline requirements rather than differentiators.
As the aircraft approaches its entry into service, its performance and sustainability features are expected to influence future product development across the industry, setting new benchmarks for what midsize business jets can offer.
The debut of the Cessna Citation Ascend signifies a meaningful advancement in the evolution of midsize business jets. By integrating cutting-edge engine technology, a passenger-focused cabin, and advanced avionics, Textron Aviation has responded to the changing demands of the business aviation market. The Ascend’s performance, efficiency, and sustainability features position it as a strong contender in its segment.
Looking ahead, the Ascend’s introduction reflects larger trends in aviation, including a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility, user-centered design, and technological integration. As sustainable fuels and digital cockpit technologies become more prevalent, the Citation Ascend is well-placed to serve as a reference point for future developments in business aviation.
Question: When will the Cessna Citation Ascend enter service? Question: What is the maximum range of the Citation Ascend? Question: What are the key features of the PW545D engine? Question: Who is the launch customer for the Citation Ascend?
Textron Aviation Debuts the Cessna Citation Ascend: A New Era in Business Jets
Key Features and Innovations of the Cessna Citation Ascend
Performance and Operational Capabilities
Cabin Design and Passenger Comfort
Avionics and Cockpit Technology
The Pratt & Whitney PW545D Engine: Efficiency and Sustainability
Technological Advancements and Performance
Sustainable Aviation and Future Readiness
Market Implications and Customer Response
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: The Citation Ascend is expected to receive FAA certification and enter service in 2025.
Answer: The aircraft has a maximum range of 1,900 nautical miles with four passengers.
Answer: The PW545D engine offers approximately 4,200 pounds of thrust, improved fuel efficiency, extended maintenance intervals, and compatibility with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel.
Answer: NetJets is the launch customer for the Citation Ascend.
Sources
Photo Credit: RTX
Business Aviation
NTSB Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
NTSB details preliminary findings on the fatal Statesville Cessna Citation 550 crash with seven fatalities, including Greg Biffle.
This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.
According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).
The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.
During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.
“Emergency landing.”
, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials
The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.
NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.
At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.
To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:
All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.
The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.
Who were the victims of the crash? When will the cause of the crash be determined? Was the airport controlled? Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication
Investigation Status and Site Analysis
Recorder Recovery
Weather Factors
Visual Assets and Public Docket
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB
Business Aviation
Honda Aircraft Introduces APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJets
Honda Aircraft offers the APMG S retrofit for Classic and APMG HondaJets, enhancing payload, avionics, and safety with FAA certified upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.
Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.
According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.
The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.
Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Avionics and Safety Systems Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.
The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market. In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:
“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”
While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.
By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:
Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.
Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet
Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.
Strategic Commitment to the Fleet
AirPro News Analysis
Availability and Implementation
Sources
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Partner to Expand Private Jet Access Across Continents
PlaneSense partners with CaptainJet, enabling reciprocal private flight access with Pilatus aircraft across the US, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.
This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.
PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.
The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.
For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.
This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.
George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release: “Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”
Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:
“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”
The Asset-Light Expansion Model The Short-Runway Niche 2025 Industry Trends What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe? Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US? Is this a merger?
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration
Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers
Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”
Executive Commentary
Strategic Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.
Sources
Photo Credit: PlaneSense
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