Textron Aviation Cessna Citation: Good Things Come in Threes

Announced at the recent National Business Aviation Association — Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3, and CJ4 Gen3 models are generating a buzz in the aviation industry and further solidify the reputation of the CitationJet series as one of the premier go-to choices for corporate and personal jets. 

With improved features and enhanced cabin technology, it’s easy to see why these upgrades are so significant and what they mean for pilots and passengers alike.

A Legacy of Innovation

The Cessna Citation series has long been synonymous with speed, efficiency, reliability and comfort. Since the introduction of the first Citation in the 1970s, the brand has consistently raised the bar, establishing a reputation for dependable performance and a high level of comfort. With each successive model, Cessna has introduced innovations that keep up with the evolving demands of modern aviation. The Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 are no exception, carrying on the Citation legacy with features that appeal to both the business passenger and the flight crew.

Garmin Emergency Autoland—the Game Changer

The Gen3 aircraft include game-changing Garmin Emergency Autoland on all three models for enhanced peace of mind for passengers and flight crew alike.

Many Citation customers value the efficiency that comes with single-pilot operation. However, should the pilot become incapacitated, passenger input is required for a safe landing. Garmin Emergency Autoland acts like a virtual second pilot, thereby making single-pilot operation even more compelling.

The ingenuity of Garmin Emergency Autoland is easily understood by examining its four stages of operation for a successful landing in case of pilot incapacitation.

In the first stage, the system continuously engages the flight crew (solo or dual pilots) to ensure responsiveness. If the system detects a period of non-response or if a passenger proactively presses the Garmin Emergency Autoland button in the cabin, Autoland takes over. This is known as the activation stage.

The second stage, known as the stabilization stage, commences with an analysis by Garmin Emergency Autoland to determine the optimal outcome. The system takes into account a myriad of factors including location, weather and terrain before deciding which airport to land at. The system then communicates to air traffic control (ATC) and passengers to explain the situation and plan of action. Even for passengers with little to no aviation experience, Autoland makes its intentions and actions easy to comprehend for peace of mind.

The third stage, or controlled descent stage, prepares the Cessna Citation for landing at the closest, feasible airport. General aviation aircraft can access thousands of additional airports that commercial airlines cannot serve, so landing will often be a mere matter of minutes. In the case of a pilot suffering from a medical condition, precious minutes can substantially increase the survivability chances of the incapacitated pilot. 

The fourth and final stage, the automated landing stage, automatically configures the aircraft for landing, guides the Cessna Citation to a safe and successful landing followed by the automatic shutting down of the engines so ground-based emergency services can promptly tend to the flight crew and passengers.

“Adding the Garmin Emergency Autoland system to our entire Citation light jet family lineup represents a monumental leap in aviation technology,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “As the world’s first certified system of its kind, Autoland offers not just an advancement in automated flight capabilities but a profound enhancement in passenger and pilot peace of mind. The system stands as a guardian against loss of control following pilot incapacitation, offering automated emergency communications and landing when needed and providing unparalleled peace of mind to pilots and passengers.”

The CJ4 Gen3 sets the new benchmark

As the largest model in the Citation CJ family, the CJ4 Gen3 will be able to reach destinations as far away as 2,165 nautical miles with ease. For shorter flights, the CJ4 Gen3 will be able to carry a payload of 2,200 pounds with seating for up to 11 occupants.

Garmin’s next-generation avionics suite, Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, focuses on usability, achieved through simplicity and larger screens for easier pilot workload.

As an example, the touch screen menus are flatter which makes finding information easier and faster for pilots. Slide-outs also provide pilots with essential information such as engine parameters while allowing full details with just a tap of the finger.

Secondary displays are 40% larger than previous Garmin GTCs for easier readability. At the same time, larger glass panels replace traditional dials and buttons for a streamlined cockpit experience.

As invaluable as advanced avionics are, the flight crew always retains the ability to take command to manually manage all aircraft systems and operations.

“As the first in the industry to announce the next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, the CJ4 Gen3 merges sophistication with simplicity, offering advanced features and intuitive, seamless control,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “This aircraft is designed to keep pilots a step ahead in the cockpit and aids customers in moving seamlessly throughout the entire Citation light jet fleet.”

The CJ4 Gen3 improvements are not limited to the avionics. Lithium-ion batteries will supplement starting power to further improve start-up and cold weather operations reliability. A new winglet design with new accent lighting will enhance ramp presence. Last, but not least, passengers will appreciate improved cabin acoustics for an exceptional experience on board.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 took its maiden flight in October 2024 and is expected to enter into service in 2026.

The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 and M2 Gen3 are planned for entry into service in 2027.

The upgraded Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 models represent a significant step forward in the light jet category, blending performance and comfort in ways that few other jets can match. With these advancements, Textron Aviation reaffirms its commitment to delivering aircraft that meet the needs of today’s sophisticated travelers and operators. For those seeking a private jet experience that’s state-of-the-art, connected and exceedingly comfortable, the Citation Gen3 series offers an enticing combination of technology, passenger-focused enhancements and robust performance capabilities. This new generation of Cessna Citations sets a new standard for excellence in the skies.