Textron IncCessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 prototype completed first flight, advancing next-gen light jet toward certification.

The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 prototype has completed its first flight, advancing the next-generation light jet toward certification. With this milestone, all three next-generation Citation light jets—the CJ4 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3, and M2 Gen3—are now in flight testing. The initial nearly two-hour flight from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport reached a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet and a maximum speed of 278 knots indicated, focusing on cockpit software functionality. The aircraft features Garmin Emergency Autoland on the Garmin G3000 avionics platform and offers a maximum range of 2,040 nautical miles and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds. Textron Aviation is now conducting comprehensive flight testing toward FAA certification and entry into service.
Textron IncCessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 prototype completed first flight, advancing next-gen light jet toward certification.