Textron Aviation has announced Ryan Samples, a longtime Cessna Citation customer, as the launch customer for the new Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet. The company unveiled the aircraft today at the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas. Samples has signed a purchase agreement to take delivery of the first CJ4 Gen3, which is expected to enter service in 2026. The jet is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT).
“As both a pilot and business owner, I am thrilled to be the launch customer for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3,” said Samples. “Our appreciation for Citation jets has only grown with each new model, and the CJ4 Gen3 reflects Textron Aviation’s commitment to excellence. I look forward to enhancing our travel experience with this remarkable aircraft.”
Textron Aviation also introduced two other new Citation models at the event—the Citation CJ3 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3—further solidifying the Citation family’s reputation as the most popular line of business jets globally. All three Gen3 aircraft are equipped with Garmin Autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland systems. The CJ4 Gen3, which will require the 525 type rating, is the first to feature the next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, elevating the pilot experience.
“Ryan Samples is a perfect match for the CJ4 Gen3,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Flight Operations. “As a dedicated Citation fan, he values the jet’s responsive handling, advanced avionics, and superior quality. I’m excited for him to experience the enhancements in this exceptional aircraft.”
The Citation CJ4 Gen3 sets new standards for light business jets, offering more standard features than any other jet in its class. With nearly 10 percent lower operating costs than its nearest competitors and a class-leading range at any payload, the CJ4 Gen3 is designed to make the most of every journey.