This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft and technical specifications released by the manufacturer.

Cirrus Unveils G3 Vision Jet: 7-Seat Configuration and Avionics Overhaul

On February 3, 2026, Cirrus Aircraft officially unveiled the G3 Vision Jet, the third generation of the world’s first single-engine personal jet. According to the company’s announcement, the G3 introduces a suite of upgrades focused on pilot connectivity, performance efficiency, and cabin versatility. The most significant change for the owner-pilot market is a new seating configuration capable of accommodating up to seven passengers, a direct response to customer feedback regarding cabin utility.

Deliveries for the new model are reportedly underway, with a fully equipped price point of approximately $3.68 million. The G3 builds upon the G2+ platform, retaining the Williams International FJ33-5A engine while utilizing aerodynamic and software refinements to extract greater performance and comfort.

Reimagined Cabin and Seating

The headline feature of the G3 Vision Jet is the expansion of its passenger capacity. While previous generations (G1 through G2+) were limited to five adults and two children, the G3 introduces an optional bench seat for the third row. This new configuration allows for six adults and one child, significantly altering the utility profile of the aircraft.

The Seventh Seat

According to Cirrus Aircraft, the new third-row bench is designed to accommodate two adults and a child (or smaller individual) in the center position. This replaces the previous child-only jump seats, offering owners more flexibility for family transport or business travel. To facilitate access to these rear seats, the pilot and co-pilot seats now feature a “one-handed” release handle that allows them to slide fully aft, simplifying entry and exit through the main cabin door. Additionally, the middle-row seats are now removable via a single lever mechanism.

Ergonomic Refinements

Beyond capacity, Cirrus has addressed specific ergonomic complaints from previous models. Most notably, the engineering team redesigned the honeycomb structure beneath the seats to eliminate a specific noise issue known among owners as “the Cirrus Crinkle.”

“We tightened up that honeycomb so we don’t have that crinkle anymore,” said Matt Bergwall, Executive Director of the Vision Jet Product Line, regarding the noise reduction improvements.

The interior also features new hardshell seatbacks wrapped in Alcantara, along with updated amenities such as dedicated personal device mounts, USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin, and new tray tables.

Avionics and Connectivity Upgrades

The G3 incorporates significant updates to the Cirrus Perspective Touch+ flight deck, which is based on the Garmin G3000 system. These updates focus on reducing pilot workload and increasing situational awareness, particularly during ground operations and complex arrival procedures.

Key avionics features include:

• ATC Datalink (CPDLC): The integration of Controller Pilot Data Link Communications allows pilots to receive air traffic control clearances and frequency changes via text message. This system is designed to reduce radio congestion and the likelihood of transcription errors.
• 3D SafeTaxi & Taxiway Routing: This feature provides visual overlays of taxiways and hold-short lines directly on the flight displays, aiding navigation at complex airports.
• Alerts-Linked Checklists: In the event of a system alert (CAS message), the relevant checklist now automatically populates on the screen, streamlining the pilot’s response to abnormal events.

Performance and Exterior Enhancements

While the core powerplant remains the Williams International FJ33-5A, producing approximately 1,846 lbs of thrust, the G3 achieves performance gains through software and aerodynamic optimization. The aircraft now boasts a maximum cruise speed of 317 KTAS (Knots True Airspeed), a slight increase over the G2+.

According to the manufacturer, this speed increase is largely due to an increased Maximum Mach Operating (MMO) capability in cooler temperatures. Matt Bergwall noted that previous models were often “Mach-limited” in high-altitude, cool conditions, hitting their speed limit before reaching their power limit. The G3 unlocks up to 7 knots of additional speed in these specific environments.

Additional specifications include:

• Range: Approximately 1,275 nautical miles.
• Takeoff Distance: Approximately 2,036 feet (rolling).
• Max Operating Altitude: 31,000 feet (FL310).

Externally, the G3 is distinguishable by its new Spectra Wingtip Lighting. These LED wingtip and landing lights are rated as 2.7 times brighter than those on the previous model, intended to improve visibility and ramp presence. The aircraft also features new livery options and Arrivée trim levels.

Safety Systems

The G3 retains the signature safety systems that have defined the Vision Jet program. Standard equipment includes the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), a whole-airframe parachute designed to lower the aircraft to the ground in catastrophic emergencies.

Also standard is the Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system. Activated by a button in the cabin, this system allows the jet to autonomously communicate with ATC, navigate to the nearest suitable airport, land, and shut down the engine in the event of pilot incapacitation.

“The G3 Vision Jet is a testament to our relentless innovation… [for] our owners who want to travel efficiently with award-winning safety features,” stated Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft.

AirPro News Analysis

The introduction of the G3 Vision Jet marks a subtle but critical shift in Cirrus Aircraft’s market positioning. By expanding the seating capacity to seven (specifically allowing for more adults), Cirrus is directly addressing one of the few competitive disadvantages the Vision Jet held against high-performance single-engine turboprops like the Daher TBM or Pilatus PC-12.

While the Vision Jet has always offered the allure of jet propulsion and the safety net of a parachute, previous models were often viewed as “2+2” or “4+2” machines in practical use. The G3’s ability to legally and physically accommodate a larger mix of adults and children moves it closer to a true family hauler. Furthermore, the integration of CPDLC brings the Vision Jet’s avionics suite in line with larger business jets, reinforcing the “personal jet” narrative not just as a marketing term, but as a technological reality.

Sources: Cirrus Aircraft

This article summarizes reporting by Aviation Week, publicly available elements and industry data.

Dassault Sets March 10 for Falcon 10X Rollout

Dassault Aviation has officially scheduled the public debut of its flagship business jet, the Falcon 10X. According to reporting by Aviation Week, the French aerospace manufacturers has set March 10, 2026, as the date for the formal rollout of the ultra-long-range aircraft. This event represents a pivotal moment for the program, transitioning the jet from strict development secrecy to a physical reality before its anticipated maiden flight later this year.

The Falcon 10X is designed to be the largest purpose-built business jet in the industry, aiming to disrupt a market segment currently dominated by the Bombardier Global 7500 and the Gulfstream G700. While the program has faced schedule adjustments due to global supply chain constraints, the confirmation of a rollout date signals that the manufacturer is ready to showcase the fully assembled aircraft to the world.

The Rollout and Program Status

The March 10 event serves as the formal unveiling of the aircraft, a traditional milestone in aerospace that typically precedes the first flight. Industry observers note that this rollout is intended to demonstrate tangible progress to customers and stakeholders following previous delays.

According to data aggregated from industry reports, including updates from Flight Global and Dassault Aviation, the program timeline has shifted from its original targets. While the rollout is imminent, the Entry into Service (EIS) is now targeted for late 2027. This delay from the original 2025 target has been attributed to persistent supply chain disruptions and the lingering effects of the pandemic on tier-one vendors.

Production Progress

Despite the timeline shifts, physical production has advanced significantly. Reports indicate that three test aircraft are structurally complete at the manufacturer’s facility in Bordeaux-Mérignac. Furthermore, the Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines, which will power the massive jet, have been delivered for the test fleet. Ground tests, including power-on procedures, have already been observed on the prototypes.

Technical Specifications and Cabin Design

Dassault is positioning the Falcon 10X not just as a competitor, but as a category leader regarding interior volume. The manufacturer’s specifications highlight a cabin that prioritizes width and height over pure length, a strategy designed to offer superior passenger comfort on ultra-long-haul missions.

“The Falcon 10X is designed to be the largest and most capable purpose-built business jet on the market.”

, Industry Research Report

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Cabin Dimensions

The cabin dimensions are the 10X’s primary selling point. Official specifications list the cabin width at 9 feet 1 inch (2.77 meters) and height at 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters). These figures place the 10X above its direct rivals:

• Falcon 10X: 9 ft 1 in wide
• Gulfstream G700: 8 ft 2 in wide
• Bombardier Global 7500: 8 ft 0 in wide

The aircraft also features a modular layout with four distinct cabin zones and 50% larger windows than the Falcon 8X, aiming to maximize natural light and reduce passenger fatigue.

Performance Capabilities

Performance metrics released by Dassault indicate the jet will be capable of flying 7,500 nautical miles (13,900 km) non-stop. This range allows for direct connections between city pairs such as New York to Shanghai or Los Angeles to Sydney. The aircraft will have a top speed of Mach 0.925, powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X engines, each producing over 18,000 lbs of thrust while maintaining compatibility with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Market Context

The ultra-long-range segment is fiercely competitive. The Falcon 10X is entering a market where the Bombardier Global 7500 has been in service since 2018 and the Gulfstream G700 entered service in 2024. Dassault is effectively playing catch-up regarding delivery timelines, but the company is banking on the 10X’s superior physical dimensions and advanced flight deck technology, derived from the Rafale fighter jet, to persuade buyers to wait.

AirPro News Analysis

The confirmation of the March 10 rollout date is a critical strategic move for Dassault. With the Global 7500 already established and the G700 ramping up deliveries, Dassault risks losing market share to impatient buyers. By setting a firm date for the unveiling, Dassault is signaling to the market that the “paper plane” phase is over.

However, the late 2027 entry-into-service target remains a vulnerability. In the high-stakes world of business aviation, a two-year gap between rollout and delivery is substantial. The success of the Falcon 10X will likely depend on whether the market perceives the extra foot of cabin width as a luxury worth waiting for, or if the immediate availability of Gulfstream and Bombardier products will capture the current wave of fleet modernization.

Sources:

• Aviation Week
• Dassault Aviation
• Flight Global
• AIN Online

This article is based on an official press release from Gulfstream Aerospace and additional background data.

Gulfstream President Mark Burns Inducted into Living Legends of Aviation

Mark Burns, the President of Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. and Executive Vice President of General Dynamics, has been officially inducted into the “Living Legends of Aviation.” The honor was bestowed during the 23rd Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards ceremony held on January 23, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. Hosted by John Travolta, the “Official Ambassador of Aviation,” the event recognized Burns for his four decades of service and leadership within the aerospace sector.

According to the official announcement from Gulfstream Aerospace, this induction places Burns among a select group of entrepreneurs, innovators, and pilots who have made significant contributions to the field. The recognition follows a similar accolade received by Burns in January 2024, when the same organization presented him with the “Lifetime Aviation Industry Leader Award.”

The ceremony highlighted Burns’ journey from an entry-level position to the helm of one of the world’s most prominent business jet manufacturers. His tenure has been marked by a substantial expansion of the company’s fleet and a focus on technological innovation.

A Career Spanning Four Decades

Mark Burns’ career at Gulfstream is a testament to internal growth and long-term dedication. As detailed in company records, Burns joined Gulfstream in 1983. He began his professional journey as a computer-aided design (CAD) operator, a technical role that provided him with a foundational understanding of aircraft engineering.

Rising Through the Ranks

Over the subsequent 40 years, Burns advanced through various departments, including Engineering and Customer Support. He was named President of Gulfstream in July 2015. In addition to leading the Savannah-based manufacturer, he serves as a vice president of the parent company, General Dynamics. His leadership style is often characterized by a deep familiarity with the engineering complexities of the aircraft and the operational needs of the customer base.

Modernizing the Gulfstream Fleet

Under Burns’ presidency, Gulfstream has executed a significant modernization of its product line. The company credits his leadership with the successful development and certification of the next-generation family of aircraft. This lineup includes:

• The Gulfstream G500
• The Gulfstream G600
• The Gulfstream G700
• The ultra-long-range Gulfstream G800

These aircraft represent a shift toward higher speed, longer range, and advanced avionics, solidifying the manufacturer’s competitive position in the heavy-iron business jet market.

Industry Recognition and Impact

The “Living Legends of Aviation” organization meets annually to honor those who have defined the industry. By inducting Burns, the organization acknowledged not only his corporate success but his broader influence on aviation safety and technology.

Phebe N. Novakovic, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Dynamics, praised Burns in a statement released by the company:

“Mark is a superb leader who embodies aviation. His comprehensive knowledge, leadership, courage and compassion exemplify a living legend of aviation.”

In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Burns is active in several industry and community boards. He serves on the board of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the associate member advisory council of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). Locally in Georgia, he is involved with the Georgia Power board and the Georgia Historical Society.

The 2026 Class of Inductees

While Burns was a focal point for the business aviation sector, the 2026 ceremony honored a diverse group of aviation figures. According to event reports, other honorees included Eileen M. Collins, the first female NASA space shuttle commander; country music artist and pilot Aaron Tippin; and Dan Drohan, CEO of Solairus Aviation.

AirPro News Analysis

The induction of Mark Burns into the Living Legends of Aviation underscores a critical trend in the aerospace sector: the value of operational continuity. In an era where executive turnover can be high, Burns’ 40-year tenure at a single OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) is increasingly rare.

From our perspective, this stability has allowed Gulfstream to maintain a consistent product strategy. The simultaneous development of the G500, G600, G700, and G800 programs required massive capital investment and long-term strategic patience, assets that are difficult to deploy without stable leadership. By honoring Burns, the industry is effectively validating the “promote from within” culture that has defined Gulfstream’s recent history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Living Legends of Aviation?
It is an organization that recognizes people who have made significant contributions to aviation, including entrepreneurs, pilots, astronauts, and industry leaders. They hold an annual awards ceremony in Beverly Hills.

How long has Mark Burns been President of Gulfstream?
Mark Burns has served as President of Gulfstream Aerospace since July 2015. He has been with the company since 1983.

Which aircraft were developed under Burns’ leadership?
During his tenure as President, Gulfstream developed and certified the G500, G600, G700, and G800 models.

Sources

• Gulfstream Aerospace Press Release
• Living Legends of Aviation