This article is based on an official press release from Textron Aviation.

Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 Officially Enters Service

Textron Aviation has officially commenced deliveries of the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2, marking the entry into service for the latest iteration of its popular light jet platform. According to a company press release issued on January 8, 2026, the first aircraft were delivered to launch customers Dave Mecartney and Shannon Day, both of whom are longtime Citation owners.

The entry into service follows the aircraft’s initial announcement at the National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in October 2023 and its subsequent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification in October 2025. The CJ3 Gen2 represents a significant refresh of the CJ3+ model, incorporating new avionics technology and interior redesigns heavily influenced by customer feedback.

Customer-Driven Design and Launch

Textron Aviation emphasized that the development of the CJ3 Gen2 was guided by a Customer Advisory Board consisting of owners, pilots, and mechanics. This collaborative approach aimed to address specific operational needs and comfort requirements for the light jet market, particularly for owner-pilots.

Launch customer Dave Mecartney, a member of the advisory board and a Citation owner since 2007, took delivery of his new aircraft this week. Textron noted that Mecartney played a direct role in shaping the enhancements found in the new model.

“Choosing the CJ3 Gen2 felt like a natural continuation of a relationship and an aircraft lineage that I’ve relied on for nearly two decades.”

, Dave Mecartney, Launch Customer

Shannon Day, another launch customer, highlighted the practical benefits of the redesign for pilots of taller stature. In the press release, Day noted that he looked forward to the “advances in this aircraft like autothrottles, an externally serviceable lavatory and more legroom for a 6’3” pilot.”

Key Technical and Interior Updates

The “Gen2” designation signifies a comprehensive update to the aircraft’s interface and passenger experience rather than a clean-sheet airframe design. The updates focus on reducing pilot workload and increasing luxury.

Cockpit Enhancements

The most significant operational upgrade in the cockpit is the inclusion of Garmin autothrottles as a standard feature. Integrated into the Garmin G3000 avionics suite, this system is designed to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection. Additionally, the cockpit layout has been adjusted to provide an additional 4.5 inches of legroom for the pilot, a critical comfort factor for long-range missions.

Connectivity has also been upgraded with the Garmin GDL 60 datalink, allowing for automatic database updates and wireless flight plan transmission.

Cabin Refinements

The cabin redesign introduces several features aimed at improving the passenger experience and operational convenience:

• Externally Serviceable Lavatory: A major request from operators, this feature allows for servicing without bringing equipment through the main cabin.
• Natural Light: New “CoolView” skylights have been added to the lavatory area.
• Power and Connectivity: The cabin now features USB-C power at every seat, wireless smartphone charging, and optional high-power outlets capable of supporting appliances like coffee machines.
• Ambiance: New RGB accent lighting allows passengers to customize the cabin environment.

Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Textron Aviation, commented on the significance of these updates in the company statement:

“The Citation CJ3 Gen2 delivers an unmatched experience from day one, thanks to its exceptional range, payload and efficiency, combined with new productivity and comfort features.”

, Lannie O’Bannion, Textron Aviation

Performance Specifications

While the interior and avionics have seen major changes, the CJ3 Gen2 retains the core performance metrics that established the CJ3 series in the light jet market. Powered by two Williams International FJ44-3A turbofan engines, the aircraft offers the following specifications:

• Range: 2,040 nautical miles (nm)
• Max Cruise Speed: 416 knots true airspeed (ktas)
• Max Payload: 2,135 lbs
• Passenger Capacity: Standard seating for up to 9 passengers

AirPro News Analysis

The entry into service of the CJ3 Gen2 solidifies Textron Aviation’s strategy of iterative modernization. By applying the “Gen2” treatment, previously seen on the Citation M2 and CJ4, Textron is able to extend the lifecycle of its proven airframes while competing with newer entrants on technology and comfort. This approach avoids the high capital costs and regulatory delays associated with clean-sheet designs while still offering a “new” product to the market.

The specific focus on pilot legroom and autothrottles suggests a clear targeting of the owner-pilot demographic. In the light jet segment, the person writing the check is often the person in the left seat. By addressing fatigue factors (legroom) and workload (autothrottles), Textron is directly appealing to the unique needs of this buyer profile, ensuring the CJ3 remains a competitive option against rivals like the Embraer Phenom 300E.

Furthermore, the introduction of the externally serviceable lavatory addresses a long-standing pain point for charter operators and corporate flight departments, potentially broadening the aircraft’s appeal beyond owner-pilots to fleet operators who prioritize turnaround efficiency.

Sources: Textron Aviation

This article summarizes reporting by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

The High-Stakes Geometry of Hangar Stacking: Experts Weigh In

In the world of business aviation, the hangar floor is a chessboard where the pieces cost tens of millions of dollars and the margin for error is measured in inches. “Hangar stacking”, the logistical puzzle of fitting multiple aircraft into a confined space, is a critical skill that balances efficiency with extreme safety protocols. According to recent reporting by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), successful stacking requires far more than just spatial awareness; it demands a philosophy of foresight.

The NBAA recently interviewed several industry veterans, described as “stacking wizards,” to uncover the methodologies that prevent “hangar rash”, the minor but costly dings and scrapes that occur during ground handling. As Commercial-Aircraft sizes increase and hangar space remains at a premium, these insights are becoming increasingly vital for line service technicians and facility managers alike.

The Core Philosophy: Stack for the Exit

The primary consensus among the experts interviewed by the NBAA is that efficient stacking begins with the end in mind. Gene Velazquez, president and founder of One Mile Up Inc., emphasized that the goal is never simply to fit the aircraft inside. Instead, crews must prioritize how those aircraft will eventually be removed.

Velazquez noted that the crew stacking the hangar in the evening is rarely the same crew pulling aircraft out in the morning. Consequently, a layout that lacks logic can create hazardous bottlenecks for the morning shift. This sentiment was echoed by Kristina Fudge, a line service technician at Modern Aviation, who advised creating a concrete plan before a tug ever moves.

“Every tow movement carries risk, so minimizing the number of moves is crucial.”

, Kristina Fudge (via NBAA)

The “Corner-In” Strategy

One specific technique highlighted in the report is the “corner-in” approach. Rather than pushing aircraft straight back against a wall, experts suggest placing the noses of larger jets into the back corners of the hangar first. This geometric arrangement creates pockets of usable space behind the large jets where smaller aircraft can be “tucked in,” utilizing dead space that would otherwise be wasted.

Navigating Swept-Wing Physics

Moving modern business jets requires a deep understanding of physics, particularly regarding swept-wing aircraft. Adam Castle, a line service technician at Skyservice, warned that wingtips on these jets behave counter-intuitively during turns.

According to the NBAA report, Castle described a “growing wing” phenomenon. On aircraft with long wheelbases, the inside wingtip can appear stationary while the rest of the plane pivots, but the outside wing sweeps outward rapidly. This acceleration can catch inexperienced tug drivers off guard.

To mitigate this, Castle recommends watching the tail rather than the nose during pushbacks. The tail provides an earlier visual cue regarding the speed and sharpness of the turn.

“The sharper the angle gets, the faster it will continue to turn.”

, Adam Castle (via NBAA)

Safety Protocols and Teamwork

Regardless of the geometry used, Safety relies on human communication. The experts stressed that wing walkers are “irreplaceable” assets who serve as the tug driver’s extended eyes. Michael Beasley, a former line service expert, noted that drivers must operate with “3D thinking,” moving slowly enough to allow walkers to process hazards and signal a stop.

Standard industry protocols reinforced in the report include:

• The Circle of Safety: A mandatory walk-around to check for chocks and disconnected cables before movement.
• Whistle Authority: If a wing walker blows their whistle, all movement stops immediately, no questions asked.
• Speed Limits: Towing should generally not exceed a walking pace (approximately 5 mph).

AirPro News Analysis: The Technology Factor

While the NBAA report focuses heavily on human skill and experience, AirPro News notes that the industry is increasingly turning to Technology to mitigate the risks of high-density stacking. As business jets grow larger, with models like the Gulfstream G700 and Global 7500 challenging the dimensions of older hangars, the “human Tetris” approach is being supplemented by digital tools.

Software solutions such as HangarStack allow facility managers to virtually arrange aircraft on a screen before risking physical assets. This “digital twin” approach helps identify potential conflicts that might not be visible from the tug driver’s seat. Furthermore, the adoption of remote-controlled, towbarless tugs (such as Mototok units) is changing the vantage point of the operator, allowing them to walk alongside the aircraft rather than sitting in a tractor, thereby reducing blind spots.

However, even with advanced software and electric tugs, the fundamental advice from the NBAA’s experts remains relevant: patience and communication are the ultimate safeguards against costly damage.

Sources

NBAA: Maintenance: Hangar Stacking Wizards Share Their Best Practices

This article is based on an official press release from Textron Aviation.

Cessna Citation Ascend Enters Service, Marking New Era for 560XL Series

Textron Aviation has officially commenced deliveries of the Cessna Citation Ascend, the latest evolution in its storied 560XL midsize business jet family. According to a company press release, the first retail customer took delivery of the aircraft on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, marking the jet’s formal entry into service (EIS). This milestone follows the aircraft receiving its type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in November 2025.

The Citation Ascend is designed to modernize the highly successful Excel/XLS/XLS+ platform, which has long dominated the midsize charter and corporate market. Textron Aviation states that the new model aims to “redefine” the segment by introducing large-cabin amenities, most notably a completely flat floor, into a midsize airframe. The aircraft was first announced in 2023 and has now transitioned from development to active fleet operations.

By delivering the first unit before the end of the year, Textron Aviation fulfills its projected timeline for the Ascend. The aircraft enters a competitive market with a list price of approximately $16.725 million, positioning it as a cost-effective option that balances luxury with the short-field utility the Citation line is known for.

Cabin and Cockpit Upgrades

The primary focus of the Citation Ascend’s design is the passenger experience. In its official announcement, Textron Aviation highlighted the elimination of the dropped aisle found in previous 560XL models. The new flat floor design allows for easier movement throughout the cabin, a feature typically reserved for super-midsize or large-cabin jets like the Citation Latitude.

Passenger Amenities

Beyond the floor, the manufacturer notes that the cabin windows have been enlarged by 15% compared to previous models, significantly increasing natural light. The standard configuration seats nine passengers, though the aircraft can accommodate up to 12. Textron also emphasized the inclusion of an advanced acoustic treatment system, which they claim creates a cabin environment as quiet as a luxury automobile.

Avionics and Pilot Support

Up front, the Ascend features a major overhaul of the flight deck. The aircraft is equipped with the Garmin G5000 avionics suite, which utilizes three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays. According to the press release, the jet includes standard autothrottle technology, designed to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection. This addition brings the Ascend’s avionics capabilities in line with the larger Latitude and Longitude models, facilitating easier pilot transitions across the Textron fleet.

Performance Specifications

The Citation Ascend is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines. These powerplants offer increased thrust and improved fuel efficiency over the PW545C engines used on the preceding Citation XLS Gen2. Textron Aviation reports the following performance metrics for the new aircraft:

• Range: 2,100 nautical miles (nm) at long-range cruise power.
• Maximum Speed: 441 knots true airspeed (ktas).
• Runway Performance: Retains the short-field capabilities of the 560XL family.

The manufacturer notes that this range allows for non-stop flights between city pairs such as London City to Athens or La Mole to Prague with four passengers on board.

AirPro News Analysis: Market Positioning

With the entry into service of the Citation Ascend, Textron Aviation is moving to defend its dominance in the “true midsize” category. Based on industry data and the specifications released, the Ascend occupies a specific niche that prioritizes operational flexibility over transcontinental range.

When compared to competitors like the Embraer Praetor 500 or the Bombardier Challenger 3500, the Ascend offers a distinct value proposition. While the Praetor 500 and Challenger 3500 offer greater range (exceeding 3,300 nm) and higher top speeds, they also come with significantly higher price tags, estimated at over $18 million and $27 million respectively. The Ascend, priced near $16.7 million, targets operators flying regional missions (2–4 hours) who require access to smaller, challenging airports that heavier super-midsize jets cannot utilize.

We observe that the “flat floor” upgrade is a strategic move to neutralize one of the few remaining advantages competitors held over the XLS series in terms of cabin comfort. By combining this luxury feature with the 560XL’s legendary runway performance, Textron effectively secures the upgrade path for the existing base of over 1,000 Excel/XLS owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Citation Ascend receive FAA certification?
The aircraft received type certification from the FAA on November 5, 2025.

What is the range of the Citation Ascend?
The aircraft has a maximum range of 2,100 nautical miles (nm).

How does the Ascend differ from the Citation XLS Gen2?
The most significant differences are the flat cabin floor, larger windows, the upgrade to Pratt & Whitney PW545D engines, and the installation of the Garmin G5000 avionics suite with autothrottles.

What is the list price of the Citation Ascend?
The 2025 delivery pricing is approximately $16.725 million.

Sources

• Textron Aviation