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