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Northern Jet Announces 2026 Aircraft Preview Tour in Florida

Northern Jet’s 2026 Aircraft Preview tour in Florida features Bombardier Challenger 300 and Cessna Citation CJ3+ for private aviation clients.

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This article is based on an official press release from Northern Jet.

Northern Jet Announces Exclusive 2026 Aircraft Preview Tour Across Florida

Northern Jet has announced an upcoming event series designed to showcase its fleet capabilities to Private-Jets clients. The “2026 Aircraft Preview” will take place across three Florida cities in early March 2026, offering prospective and current members a hands-on opportunity to tour two of the operator’s primary aircraft, the Bombardier Challenger 300 and the Cessna Citation CJ3+.

According to the company’s announcement, the tour is tailored specifically for individuals and businesses evaluating private aviation solutions, including Jet Card upgrades, fractional ownership, and comprehensive aircraft management. The event underscores Northern Jet’s strategy of connecting with clients in high-demand regions, particularly along the north-south corridor between the Midwest and Florida.

By hosting static displays at key regional airports, Northern Jet aims to demonstrate the distinct operational advantages of its fleet. The company stated that the event will allow attendees to engage directly with the aviation team and experience the cabin comfort and Avionics of the featured jets firsthand.

Event Schedule and Locations

The 2026 Aircraft Preview is structured as a three-day tour, stopping at major private aviation hubs in Florida. Based on the event details released by the company, the schedule is as follows:

  • March 2, 2026: Naples, FL, Naples Municipal Airport (APF)
  • March 3, 2026: Sarasota, FL, Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
  • March 4, 2026: Orlando, FL, Orlando Executive Airport (ORL)

These locations align with the travel patterns of many private aviation users who frequent Florida during the winter months. The static display format replaces traditional sales pitches with a tangible experience, allowing potential buyers to physically inspect the assets they may be purchasing shares in or flying on via jet cards.

“The Aircraft Preview offers an opportunity to step onboard and engage directly with our team and aircraft. It provides clients with a clear view of how the Challenger 300 and CJ3+ support a high level of comfort, performance, and flexibility.”

, Chris Bull, CEO of Northern Jet

Featured Aircraft Profiles

Northern Jet has selected two distinct aircraft for this tour, highlighting the versatility of its fleet. The selection caters to different mission profiles, from short regional hops to transcontinental flights.

Bombardier Challenger 300

The Challenger 300 is presented as the solution for clients requiring greater range and passenger capacity. Classified as a super-midsize jet, it typically seats 8 to 9 passengers and offers a stand-up cabin height of 6 feet 1 inch. With a range of approximately 3,100 nautical miles, this aircraft is capable of non-stop coast-to-coast travel, making it a popular upgrade path for members whose travel needs have expanded beyond regional flights.

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Cessna Citation CJ3+

Representing the light jet category, the Citation CJ3+ is positioned as an efficient “workhorse” for regional travel. It typically accommodates 6 to 7 passengers and has a range of roughly 2,040 nautical miles. This aircraft is particularly well-suited for the company’s core routes connecting the Midwest to the Southeast, offering a balance of performance and operating efficiency for flights under three hours.

AirPro News Analysis

The timing and structure of Northern Jet’s 2026 preview align with broader trends in the private aviation sector. Following the merger of Northern Jet Management and SpeedBird, the combined entity has solidified its presence in the Midwest-to-Florida corridor. The choice to host these events in Naples, Sarasota, and Orlando directly targets the “snowbird” demographic that drives significant seasonal volume.

Furthermore, the focus on fractional ownership and jet cards comes at a time when tax incentives, such as bonus depreciation, remain a critical driver for aircraft purchases. By showcasing the hardware physically, Northern Jet is likely aiming to capitalize on early-year fiscal planning for high-net-worth individuals and business owners. The company’s reported renewal rate of 98.2% for its Private Advantage Card in 2025 suggests a strong existing client base, which this event may seek to upsell into larger cabin classes like the Challenger 300.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the target audience for this event?
The event is designed for individuals and businesses interested in private aviation solutions, specifically those considering Jet Cards, fractional ownership, or aircraft management services.

What aircraft will be on display?
Northern Jet will display the Bombardier Challenger 300 (super-midsize) and the Cessna Citation CJ3+ (light jet).

Do I need to be a current member to attend?
While the event serves current clients looking to upgrade, it is also open to prospective clients interested in Northern Jet’s membership and ownership programs.

Sources

Photo Credit: Northern Jet

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Business Aviation

Bombardier Exceeds 2025 Targets and Projects $10B Revenue in 2026

Bombardier completes turnaround plan with $9.55B revenue in 2025 and forecasts over $10B revenue for 2026 driven by Global 8000 deliveries.

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This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier and accompanying financial reports.

Bombardier Exceeds 2025 Targets, Completes Turnaround Plan, and Eyes $10 Billion Revenue in 2026

Bombardier has officially concluded its five-year turnaround plan, reporting financial results for 2025 that exceeded both its original 2021 targets and updated guidance. According to the company’s latest financial report, full-year revenue climbed 10% year-over-year to reach $9.55 billion, while free cash flow surged to $1.07 billion. The results mark a pivotal moment for the Canadian manufacturers, which has successfully transitioned into a focused business aviation leader.

The company’s performance in 2025 was driven by record revenues in its Services division, significant growth in its Defense sector, and the entry-into-service of its flagship Global 8000 aircraft. With the turnaround plan now complete, Bombardier has issued strong guidance for 2026, projecting revenues to surpass the $10 billion mark as it shifts its strategy from stabilization to sustained growth.

2025 Financial Performance

Bombardier’s 2025 fiscal results demonstrate strong execution across its manufacturing and services segments. The company reported that it beat its original 2021 targets across all key metrics. Notably, the manufacturer delivered 157 aircraft in 2025, an increase of 11 units compared to the previous year.

Key financial highlights from the report include:

  • Total Revenue: $9.55 billion (up 10% from $8.67 billion in 2024).
  • Adjusted EBITDA: $1.56 billion, reflecting a 16.3% margin.
  • Free Cash Flow: $1.07 billion, a dramatic increase from $232 million in 2024.
  • Net Income: Reported net income reached $975 million, up 164% year-over-year.
  • Order Backlog: grew by 22% to reach $17.5 billion.

The company attributed the surge in free cash flow to efficient working capital management and higher customer advances stemming from a robust order intake. Additionally, Bombardier continued its deleveraging efforts, repaying over $400 million in debt during the fiscal year. The net leverage ratio improved to 1.9x, surpassing the company’s target range of 2.0x to 2.5x.

“We fulfilled the strategic path we set in 2021 and have completed our turnaround plan with poise, discipline and consistent execution,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO of Bombardier, in a statement regarding the results.

Strategic Pillars and Defense Expansion

The conclusion of the 2021–2025 turnaround plan validates Bombardier’s strategic pivot to becoming a pure-play business jet manufacturer. A major component of this success has been the expansion of Bombardier Defense, which has secured critical contracts utilizing the Global aircraft platform for special missions.

According to the provided reports, key developments in the defense sector include:

  • U.S. Army: A contract award for the HADES (High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System) program prototype, utilizing the Global 6500 airframe.
  • Royal Canadian Air Force: A contract for six Global 6500 aircraft to replace the Challenger fleet.
  • Germany: Continued progress on the PEGASUS airborne surveillance program based on the Global 6000 platform.

In the civil aviation segment, the company celebrated the entry-into-service of the Global 8000. The first unit was delivered in December 2025. With a top speed of Mach 0.95 and a range of 8,000 nautical miles, the Global 8000 is positioned as a premium product expected to drive margin expansion in the coming year.

2026 Guidance and Outlook

Looking ahead, Bombardier has set ambitious targets for 2026, signaling confidence in its operational efficiency and market demand. The company projects that revenue will exceed $10 billion, supported by a continued ramp-up in Global 8000 deliveries and sustained growth in aftermarket services.

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The official 2026 guidance includes:

  • Revenue: >$10.0 billion.
  • Adjusted EBITDA: >$1.625 billion.
  • Free Cash Flow: Between $600 million and $1.0 billion.
  • Deliveries: Expected to exceed 157 aircraft.

The company also plans to redeem an additional $500 million of Senior Notes in February 2026 using cash on hand, further strengthening its balance sheet.

AirPro News Analysis

The completion of Bombardier’s turnaround plan is a significant milestone for the aerospace industry. Five years ago, the company was a diversified conglomerate struggling with debt and the complex divestiture of its commercial aviation and rail businesses. The 2025 results suggest that the “pure-play” business jet strategy was not merely a survival tactic but a viable path to profitability.

Of particular note is the $2.3 billion in Services revenue. By expanding its aftermarket support network, Bombardier has successfully insulated itself somewhat from the cyclical nature of new aircraft sales. Furthermore, the aggressive pay-down of debt, reducing leverage to 1.9x, provides the company with financial flexibility it has lacked for over a decade. As supply chain constraints continue to challenge the broader sector, Bombardier’s ability to exceed delivery targets suggests a robust operational resilience that may give it a competitive edge in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Bombardier’s revenue in 2025?
Bombardier reported total revenue of $9.55 billion for 2025, a 10% increase over the previous year.

What is the Global 8000?
The Global 8000 is Bombardier’s flagship business jet, capable of speeds up to Mach 0.95 and a range of 8,000 nautical miles. It entered service in December 2025.

What is Bombardier’s outlook for 2026?
The company expects revenue to exceed $10 billion and plans to deliver more than 157 aircraft, with adjusted EBITDA projected to surpass $1.625 billion.

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Photo Credit: Bombardier

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Business Aviation

Cirrus Launches G3 Vision Jet with Advanced Flight Deck and Connectivity

Cirrus Aircraft unveils the G3 Vision Jet featuring Garmin Perspective Touch+, CPDLC, enhanced lighting, and expanded seating for seven.

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Cirrus Unveils G3 Vision Jet: A Deep Dive into Flight Deck and Exterior Upgrades

This article is based on an official press release and product details from Cirrus Aircraft.

Cirrus Aircraft has officially launched the Generation 3 (G3) Vision Jet, introducing a suite of aerodynamic refinements and “connected aircraft” technologies designed to streamline the single-pilot experience. Unveiled on February 3, 2026, the G3 model builds upon the platform’s reputation as the world’s best-selling personal jet by integrating high-end business aviation capabilities into a simplified, owner-flown framework.

According to the manufacturer, the updates focus heavily on reducing pilot workload and increasing situational awareness. While the airframe retains its distinctive V-tail design, the internal systems have undergone significant maturation. The new model features the latest evolution of the Cirrus Perspective Touch+ flight deck, powered by Garmin, alongside subtle but functional exterior enhancements that improve visibility and reduce drag.

Flight Deck Evolution: The Perspective Touch+

The centerpiece of the G3 upgrade is the advanced avionics suite. Cirrus Aircraft states that the new Perspective Touch+ system is engineered specifically to lower cognitive load during high-stress phases of flight. By automating complex tasks, the system allows pilots to maintain focus on decision-making rather than manual inputs.

ATC Datalink and Connectivity

A major addition to the G3 is the integration of Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). This system allows pilots to exchange text-based messages with Air Traffic Control (ATC) for clearances, route updates, and frequency changes.

In its product details, Cirrus highlights that this feature is designed to eliminate “readback/hearback” errors and reduce radio congestion. Complex route changes can now be accepted and automatically loaded into the flight plan with a single button press, significantly reducing the amount of time a pilot spends “heads-down” entering data.

Automated Safety Systems

The G3 introduces “Alerts-Linked Checklists,” a system that ties the Crew Alerting System (CAS) directly to electronic procedures. When a warning or caution triggers, such as “Oil Pressure Low”, the avionics automatically prompt the specific checklist required to resolve the issue. This removes the need for pilots to manually search for emergency procedures during critical moments.

Additionally, the aircraft features the Garmin GWX 8000 Auto Radar. This automated weather radar systems scans multiple angles and tilts to create a volumetric profile of storm cells ahead. By replacing manual tilt management with an automatic, clutter-free view of hazardous weather, the system allows the pilot to focus entirely on deviation strategies.

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3D SafeTaxi

To prevent runway incursions, the G3 utilizes 3D SafeTaxi. This feature provides a 3D rendering of the airport environment on the flight displays, including buildings, hangars, and signs. It allows pilots to enter taxi clearances, which then appear as a highlighted path on the map, aiding navigation at unfamiliar or complex airports.

Exterior and Aerodynamic Refinements

While the G3’s silhouette remains familiar, Cirrus has implemented specific exterior changes aimed at drag reduction, noise dampening, and ramp presence.

Spectraâ„¢ Wingtips

The new Spectraâ„¢ Wingtips feature integrated LED lighting that Cirrus claims is 2.7 times brighter than the previous generation. This enhancement is intended to improve visibility during landing and taxi operations. The wingtips also include a distinct “halo” light signature, adding a modern aesthetic that increases the aircraft’s visibility to others on the ground and in the air.

Acoustic and Drag Improvements

Cirrus has replaced the air conditioning door on the nose with a streamlined vented louver. According to the release details, this design change eliminates the mechanical noise of the door opening and closing while reducing aerodynamic drag when the system is running. Furthermore, new black pneumatic de-icing boots are now standard, replacing the previous silver versions for a cleaner look that blends with the wing’s leading edge.

Connectivity: Cirrus IQâ„¢ PRO Advanced

The G3 introduces “always-on” connectivity through Cirrus IQâ„¢ PRO Advanced. This system allows the aircraft to communicate with the pilot’s mobile device even when powered down.

Key features include:

  • Automatic Database Updates: The aircraft automatically downloads the latest navigation charts and databases via Wi-Fi or LTE while parked, ensuring the jet is mission-ready upon the pilot’s arrival.
  • Remote Health Monitoring: Owners can check fuel levels, oxygen status, battery voltage, and oil temperature remotely via the Cirrus IQ app.
  • My Trips: A digital logbook that automatically logs flight data and efficiency stats, syncing instantly after every flight.

AirPro News Analysis

The release of the G3 Vision Jet represents a strategic “mid-cycle refresh” rather than a complete platform overhaul. By focusing on software maturity and connectivity, Cirrus is addressing the specific pain points of single-pilot operations: information overload and pre-flight logistics.

The inclusion of CPDLC is particularly significant. Previously reserved for larger business jets and airliners, text-based ATC communication is a massive safety enhancer for a single pilot who might otherwise be overwhelmed by rapid-fire radio instructions in busy airspace. Furthermore, the shift toward automated database updates addresses a common annoyance in general aviation, waiting for data cards to update on the ramp.

While the airframe performance remains largely consistent with previous models, the increase in cabin capacity to seven occupants (via a new interior configuration mentioned in launch details) suggests Cirrus is keen to maximize the utility of the fuselage without altering the certified aerodynamics significantly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the passenger capacity of the G3 Vision Jet?
The G3 introduces a new interior configuration with a third-row bench seat, increasing the capacity to seven occupants (six adults and one child).

Does the G3 have Autothrottle?
Yes, the Autothrottle feature is highlighted in the G3. It manages engine power automatically to prevent over-speed or over-torque situations, particularly during takeoff.

What is the Safe Returnâ„¢ Autoland system?
Standard on the Vision Jet, this emergency system allows passengers to land the jet autonomously with the touch of a button if the pilot becomes incapacitated.

When was the G3 Vision Jet launched?
The G3 model was officially unveiled on February 3, 2026.

Sources: Cirrus Aircraft

Photo Credit: Cirrus Aircraft

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Business Aviation

Bombardier Secures Major Challenger 3500 Order from Vista Global

Bombardier signs a $1.18B deal with Vista Global for 40 Challenger 3500 jets, with options for 120 more, starting deliveries in 2026.

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This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier.

Bombardier Secures Massive Challenger 3500 Order from Vista Global

In a major development for the business aviation sector, Bombardier announced on February 11, 2026, that it has secured a significant fleet agreement with longtime customer Vista Global. The parent company of VistaJet and XO has committed to a firm order of 40 Challenger 3500 business jets, accompanied by purchase options for an additional 120 aircraft. This transaction underscores the continued demand for super-midsize jets and strengthens the decades-long relationship between the Canadian manufacturer and the global subscription operator.

According to the announcement, deliveries for the new fleet are scheduled to commence immediately in 2026 and will continue over the next decade. The deal is structured to standardize Vista’s super-midsize offerings, ensuring consistent capacity for its growing membership base. If all options are exercised, the agreement could encompass up to 160 aircraft, representing one of the largest commitments in the program’s history.

Deal Structure and Financial Impact

The financial scale of this agreement is substantial. Based on 2026 list prices, the firm order for 40 aircraft is valued at approximately $1.18 billion USD. Should Vista Global exercise all 120 options, the total value of the transaction could reach an estimated $4.72 billion USD. This structure provides Vista with the flexibility to scale its fleet in response to market conditions while securing production slots in a supply-constrained environment.

Éric Martel, CEO of Bombardier, highlighted the significance of the order in a statement regarding the partnership:

“These significant orders are a testament to how well this aircraft serves our customers… Vista has been a valued Bombardier customer since they began operating. We are proud that our relationship will further deepen.”

Why the Challenger 3500?

The selection of the Challenger 3500 aligns with Vista’s strategy to harmonize its fleet on a modern, efficient platform. The aircraft is an evolution of the Challenger 350, designed to bring “large-jet” amenities to the super-midsize category. Key features cited in the selection process include:

  • Passenger Comfort: The aircraft features Bombardier’s patented “Nuage” zero-gravity seating, previously exclusive to the larger Global 7500, and maintains a cabin altitude of 4,850 feet at 41,000 feet to reduce passenger fatigue.
  • Technology: It boasts the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin management system, allowing passengers to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment hands-free.
  • Sustainability: The Challenger 3500 is the first super-midsize jet to carry an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), offering verified transparency regarding its environmental footprint, a critical factor for Vista’s carbon-neutrality goals.

Thomas Flohr, Founder and Chairman of Vista, emphasized the long-term vision behind the acquisition:

“This agreement is about leadership, preparedness and client experience. We are continuing to build the fleet our Members will rely on over the next decade, not reacting to short-term cycles, but investing with clarity, scale and discipline.”

Strategic Implications for the Market

This order arrives at a pivotal time for the business aviation industry. By locking in inventory for the next 10 years, Vista is effectively future-proofing its operations against supply chain volatility. The new units are expected to replace older Challenger 300/350 models and legacy Citation X aircraft within the Vista and XO fleets, lowering the average fleet age and simplifying maintenance protocols.

AirPro News Analysis

We view this transaction as a strong validation of the super-midsize segment, which remains the “sweet spot” for business aviation, balancing transcontinental range (3,400 nautical miles) with operating costs significantly lower than heavy jets. For Bombardier, this order provides critical long-term visibility.

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With a backlog that stood at a record $16.1 billion in late 2025, adding a potential 160 units solidifies the Challenger production line well into the 2030s. Furthermore, this deal highlights the increasing dominance of large fleet operators. As entities like Vista, NetJets, and Flexjet consume vast amounts of production capacity, individual buyers may face increased difficulty in securing near-term delivery slots, potentially driving up residual values for existing aircraft.

Sources

Sources: Bombardier

Photo Credit: Bombardier

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