Textron Aviation has unveiled the next generation of its legendary Cessna Citation family with the introduction of the Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3, and CJ4 Gen3 light jets. A major advancement for these models is the inclusion of Garmin’s revolutionary Emergency Autoland technology, which provides automated emergency landing in case of pilot incapacitation. Additionally, the CJ4 Gen3 will feature state-of-the-art Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics for seamless and intuitive flight control. Currently in development, the CJ4 Gen3 is expected to enter service in 2026, with the M2 Gen3 and CJ3 Gen3 following in 2027. Textron Aviation, a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), continues to set the standard in business aviation with these advancements.
The new Citation Gen3 aircraft were revealed at the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, where attendees got a first look at the Citation CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 cockpit mockups. Ron Draper, Textron Aviation’s president and CEO, expressed excitement about the future of the Cessna Citation line, emphasizing the cutting-edge technology and advancements that will continue to build on the brand’s iconic legacy.
A standout feature across the new Citation Gen3 models is the Garmin Emergency Autoland, providing an unprecedented level of safety for both pilots and passengers. The system offers automated emergency communications and landing, acting as a safeguard in case of pilot incapacitation. Additionally, all three models come equipped with Garmin Autothrottles, enhancing flight protection and precision. Other advanced features include Runway Occupancy Awareness, which improves visibility of runway obstacles, and SafeTaxi 3D displays that make airport navigation easier.
“The addition of Garmin Emergency Autoland across the Citation light jet line is a monumental leap in aviation technology,” said Draper. “This system not only advances automated flight capabilities but significantly enhances peace of mind for everyone on board.”
Owners of Citation M2 Gen2 and CJ3 Gen2 aircraft equipped with autothrottles will be given the option to upgrade their aircraft with Garmin Emergency Autoland through a service bulletin following certification of the Gen3 models.
The new Citation CJ4 Gen3, part of Type 525 certification, elevates the pilot experience with the next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics. These new avionics offer a range of advanced features designed to enhance flight operations, including multi-touch interactive screens, an intuitive procedure selector, and a streamlined menu-driven interface. Other enhancements include larger secondary displays, interactive sliding panels for easy engine and system adjustments, and a simplified control interface with fewer buttons. The avionics system also offers faster processing and greater connectivity, with software-based upgrades to keep the aircraft future-ready.
Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales and Flight Operations, highlighted the benefits of the new CJ4 Gen3 avionics, saying, “The CJ4 Gen3 blends sophistication with simplicity, providing pilots with advanced features and intuitive controls that ensure a seamless experience across the Citation light jet fleet.