WICHITA, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Cessna Citation Ascend achieved a major milestone as the first retail customer took delivery of the midsize business jet on Tuesday, December 30, marking the aircraft's entry into service. Announced in 2023 the aircraft boasts an entirely new cockpit, improved performance and a luxurious flat floor cabin. The Citation Ascend received type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in November 2025. The Cessna Citation Ascend is designed and manufactured ...

Core Points - The Cessna Citation Ascend has achieved FAA type certification, marking a significant milestone for Textron Aviation, with entry into service expected later this year [2][3] - The aircraft features an entirely new cockpit, improved performance, and a luxurious flat floor cabin, enhancing versatility and flexibility for customers [2][3] - The successful flight test program included over 1,000 flight hours and numerous certification tests [2][3] Aircraft Specifications - The Citation Ascend is equipped with Garmin G5000 avionics and powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, providing a maximum speed of 441 knots (817 km/h) and a maximum range of 1,940 nautical miles (3,593 km) [4] - The aircraft has a full fuel payload capacity of 900 pounds (408 kg) [4] - It includes an unattended Honeywell RE100 [XL] Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for efficient pre-flight preparation [5] Cabin Features - The cabin can be configured for up to 12 passengers and offers luxurious amenities similar to the Cessna Citation Latitude and Longitude, including a flat floor for enhanced legroom [6] - Advanced acoustic treatment ensures a quiet environment, with cabin sound levels comparable to driving a car on the highway [8] - The cabin features larger windows (approximately 15% larger) for increased natural light and includes multiple charging ports and wireless control for lighting and entertainment [9][10] Technology and Innovation - The aircraft incorporates autothrottle technology to reduce pilot workload and enhance flight safety [7] - It features three large, 14-inch ultra high-resolution displays, synthetic vision technology, and advanced weather detection systems [7] - Connectivity options include standard GoGo U.S. Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi and optional U.S. Avance L5 Wi-Fi for global communication [10]

Core Insights - The Cessna Citation Ascend made its world debut at the 2025 NBAA-BACE, showcasing its design and features aimed at enhancing customer experience [1][3] - The aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, emphasizing fuel efficiency and increased thrust, and incorporates advanced Garmin G5000 avionics [5] Company Overview - Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has a long history of delivering aviation solutions, with over 1,000 Cessna Citation 560XL series aircraft delivered since 2000 [2][4] - The company is recognized for its diverse aviation product portfolio, including business jets, turboprops, and military trainer aircraft, serving customers in over 170 countries [7][9] Product Features - The Citation Ascend features a flat floor design, larger windows, and a wireless cabin management system, enhancing passenger comfort and experience [3][5] - The aircraft includes 19 standard USB charging ports and three universal outlets, ensuring connectivity for all passengers [6]

Core Viewpoint - Textron Aviation Defense has launched a nationwide tour to showcase the Beechcraft M-346N as a comprehensive solution for the U.S. Navy's Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program [2][4]. Company Overview - Textron Aviation Defense LLC is a subsidiary of Textron Inc., known for its legacy in producing military flight trainers and integrated training systems [10]. - The Beechcraft M-346N is assembled in the U.S. and is backed by Beechcraft's 85-year history of training U.S. military pilots [3][4]. Product Features - The Beechcraft M-346N is a twin-engine, tandem-seat aircraft equipped with advanced digital flight controls, fly-by-wire systems, and innovative safety features such as the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto-GCAS) [7]. - The aircraft offers a full training ecosystem, including high-fidelity ground-based devices, AI-powered instruction, and a Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) architecture [5]. - It is powered by two Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofan engines, achieving a maximum cruise speed of over 590 knots and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet [8]. Performance and Reliability - Over 100 M-346 aircraft produced by Leonardo have logged more than 150,000 flight hours, demonstrating exceptional performance and reliability for 20 global users [6]. - The M-346N is designed to bridge basic instruction and high-performance carrier-based fighter operations, enhancing student readiness and reducing training risk [9]. Strategic Partnerships - Textron Aviation Defense has entered a teaming agreement with Leonardo to meet the U.S. Navy's requirements for the new jet trainer [4].