TEXTRON AVIATION: CESSNA CITATION TEST PROGRAM

Momentum builds for Textron Aviation’s Cessna Citation business jet, as the successful flight of its second aircraft has taken place.

The milestone flight follows the Ascend aircraft prototype, which completed its first flight in 2023 marking the P1 aircraft the first conforming production flight test aircraft. Piloted by Michael Bradfield and Maurice Girard, the initial flight of P1 lasted 1 hour and 24 minutes, reaching a max altitude of 13,500 feet with a max speed of 308 knots. The aircraft will be used, primarily for systems testing, including propulsion, human factors, environmental control, and avionics.

“Today’s successful flight of the second Citation Ascend test article marks another achievement for the program, and that’s a testament to the many great employees involved with this project,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president of engineering. “The aircraft has continued to perform well through the phases of testing, and I continue to be confident in the program’s momentum and in our skilled team members who make it possible.”

The Citation Ascend business jet was unveiled during EBACE 2023, and the aircraft is expected to enter into service next year.