New Cessna Citation launch customer confirmed, first test flight triumph: video

In the wake of announcing plans for three next-generation Cessna Citation private jets at 2024 NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, Textron Aviation has now also confirmed the launch customer for one of the planes.  

On October 21, 2024, just hours after introducing the new Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3, Textron upped the ante yet further by revealing longtime Cessna Citation customer Ryan Samples as the first customer of the CJ4 Gen3.  

According to Textron, businessman Samples has entered into a purchase agreement with the company for the CJ4 Gen3, with delivery expected in 2026.  

“As a pilot and business owner, I’m incredibly excited to be the launch customer for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3,” said Samples. “Our longstanding appreciation for Citation jets has only grown with each new model. The CJ4 Gen3 is a testament to Textron Aviation’s dedication to excellence, and I can’t wait to elevate our travel capabilities with this remarkable aircraft.” 

The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 will be the largest Citation aircraft in the light jet segment. It is expected to feature a maximum range of 2,165 nm with up to 11 occupants on board.   

Garmin Emergency Autoland technology will be used in all three new aircraft, and the Citation CJ4 Gen3 features new, next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics for ‘intuitive, seamless control’ for pilots.  

“Ryan Samples is an ideal customer for the CJ4 Gen3,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Flight Operations. “As a longtime Citation enthusiast, he appreciates the responsive handling, advanced avionics and quality of this jet, and I look forward to him taking delivery of this incredible aircraft and experiencing the advancements in the cockpit.” 

Maiden test flight 

Textron had also announced that its Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft completed its maiden flight during October 2024.  

The CJ4 Gen 3, powered by two Williams International FJ44-4A turbofan engines, took off from the company’s west Wichita campus at Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) and flew for one hour and 47 minutes.   

“The first flight of the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft marks a major step forward in the flight test program, paving the way for future certification and delivery to customers,” said Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Programs. “Our flight test pilots reported that the aircraft flew well and performed to the levels we anticipated. The program will now move into a rigorous testing phase, ensuring the aircraft meets the highest performance standards.”   

The testing program for the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft will continue as the team’s focus turns to aircraft systems, engine, avionics and overall performance. 

Those attending NBAA-BACE between October 22 and October 24, 2024, will have the opportunity to see a new Citation CJ3 Gen3 mockup and CJ4 Gen3 cockpit mockup at Textron’s static display at Henderson Executive Airport (HSH).   

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