The Super-Mid-Size Jet That Sets A New Standard
Cessna Citation Longitude: Masterful Craftsmanship, Intuitive Technology.
By Jim Simon
In the world of private aviation, saving time is the ultimate benefit. For those who demand a schedule on their terms, and craftmanship without compromise, the Cessna® Citation Longitude® stands as a benchmark in its category. A clean sheet design certified in 2019, the aircraft seamlessly blends advanced engineering, cutting-edge avionics, and a passenger experience that sets a new standard for comfort and convenience.
Textron Aviation’s largest business jet to date, the Citation Longitude was recently in Singapore as part of an Asia-Pacific tour in February 2025. It was presented to a privileged few in private viewings and demonstration flights crisscrossing the region. We go onboard to find out more about this innovative super-midsize business jet.
A Quiet Cabin Designed for Unparalleled Comfort
For those accustomed to the finest travel experiences, the Citation Longitude experience does not disappoint. Step inside, and you’re welcomed by a spacious 6-foot (1.83m) tall flat-floor cabin, allowing passengers to stand and move freely with room for up to 12 passengers.
The demonstrator aircraft sports the Elevated Jet Black interior scheme which commands attention with a strong yet refined colour palette. The menswear-inspired design makes extensive use of luxurious black leather, quilted seat details and refined patterns to deliver an elevated first impression.
Besides 6 plush seats in the cabin, the aircraft has a 3-seat divan which can be easily converted to a large lie-flat bed. The double-club seating configuration of the aircraft gives the best-in-class legroom. Every seat is designed for optimal mobility and comfort.
The Longitude’s standout feature is the exceptionally quiet cabin. Measuring an average noise level of 67 decibels (or like the interior of a luxury sedan on a highway), the Longitude boasts the quietest cabin in its class, creating an environment conducive to business meetings, relaxation, or uninterrupted sleep. The cabin feels naturally bright, open and inviting with 15 large windows positioned for optimal viewing from every seat.
Another winning feature is the lower cabin altitude which reduces jet lag and fatigue associated with flying. It is not difficult to appreciate how one can feel less fatigue and more refreshed on arrival when the cabin altitude reduces is under 5,000 feet at typical cruising altitudes. This is significantly lower than even the most modern airliners which typically have an effective cabin altitude of over 6,000 feet.
For connectivity, the tech-friendly cabin boasts numerous wireless charging ports, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi internet as an option. The inflight entertainment and Bongiovi speaker-less audio system allow passengers to stream high-definition content from their smartphones for an immersive viewing experience as well as wirelessly control the lighting and window shades.
Meanwhile, the forward wet galley is spacious and finished in fine hardwood, comes equipped with hot and cold water, large supply cabinets, and optional appliances such as a microwave or convection oven to prepare hot meals and other refreshments.
Another interesting feature is its pressurised baggage compartment that can accommodate up to 12 suitcases. Located at the rear of the aircraft, it is conveniently accessible from the passenger cabin at any time during the flight.
Cutting-Edge Technology in the Cockpit
At the front end of the aircraft, pilots will appreciate the state-of-the-art Garmin® G5000® avionics suite, designed for ease of use and enhanced safety. The full touchscreen interface provides seamless control over navigation and communication systems, while the NextGen-capable flight deck comes with full-flight regime autothrottles for smoother and more efficient operations.
Additionally, the optional head-up display (HUD) and enhanced vision system provide better situational awareness, particularly in low-visibility conditions. This enables pilots to look outside the cockpit window while simultaneously receiving critical aircraft parameters such as airspeed and altitude.
The enhanced vision system uses infrared technology to “see through” low visibility situations such as approaching an airport and ground maneuvering in poor weather.
A Proven Success in Business Aviation
Since its introduction in 2019, the Citation Longitude has quickly become a favourite among business aviation operators. With over 130 aircraft delivered worldwide, it has earned a sterling reputation from operators such as NetJets and private owners for its reliability, efficiency, and performance.
With the lowest direct operating costs and longest maintenance intervals in the super-midsize segment, Textron Aviation says the aircraft is highly efficient to own and operate. Furthermore, the aircraft is SAF-ready (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), making it a step toward greener, more sustainable business travel.
Boasting a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 km), it easily connects major business hubs like Singapore to Melbourne, Jakarta to Tokyo, or Delhi to Frankfurt with ease. Equipped with Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines, the aircraft has an impressive maximum cruise speed of 483 KTAS (895 km/h) and maximum operating altitude of 45,000 feet (13,716 m) to connect these regional city pairs efficiently with time savings.
Asia-Pacific is home to the fastest growing economies in the world, and the need for efficient jet travel will continue to rise. The Longitude is a strong contender to be the super-midsize jet of choice for those spend lots of time in the air travelling across the region– on their terms.