Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 Flight Test Progresses with Second Aircraft in Program
Textron Aviation, a global leader in general aviation and a subsidiary of Textron Inc. has marked a significant milestone in the development of its next-generation business jet, the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3. The company announced the successful first flight of its second test aircraft—designated as the P1—signaling continued progress toward certification and eventual entry into service.
This latest development adds momentum to the CJ4 Gen3 program, which was officially unveiled at the 2024 National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). Building on the strong foundation of the Citation CJ4, the Gen3 variant introduces a range of enhancements designed to elevate pilot experience, passenger comfort, and overall operational efficiency.
Second Test Aircraft Enters the Flight Test Campaign
The first flight of the P1 aircraft marks a critical phase in the program’s test and validation roadmap. Piloted by James Bearman and Corey Eckhart, the test flight lasted three hours and 29 minutes, during which the crew evaluated a broad array of systems and avionics. According to Textron Aviation, the aircraft performed exceptionally well, achieving a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet and reaching speeds of up to 305 knots.
“The performance of the P1 aircraft met our expectations across the board,” said James Bearman, the lead pilot for the flight. “It was a smooth and uneventful sortie, which is exactly what we aim for in a well-engineered aircraft. The systems behaved as intended, and we’re pleased with the progress we’re seeing.”
The P1 test model will play a crucial role in the ongoing flight test campaign, with a specific focus on evaluating avionics, cockpit ergonomics, human factors, and interior systems. This complements the earlier prototype’s test objectives, which were primarily centered on flight dynamics, structural performance, and mechanical systems validation.
Designed with Pilots and Passengers in Mind
Textron Aviation has emphasized that the Citation CJ4 Gen3 was engineered from the ground up with pilot-centric innovations and customer feedback in mind. The aircraft features Garmin’s advanced G3000® PRIME avionics suite, a system known for its intuitive interface, high-resolution displays, and integrated touchscreen controllers. These upgrades aim to enhance situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and streamline flight operations.
“With the Citation CJ4 Gen3, we are taking the best aspects of the current CJ4 and incorporating next-generation technology and comfort features to meet the evolving expectations of today’s operators,” said Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Programs at Textron Aviation. “This achievement reinforces the momentum of the CJ4 Gen3 program and reflects our team’s dedication and expertise in designing, certifying and delivering the best aircraft to our customers.”
The CJ4 Gen3’s cockpit was designed to keep pilots at the forefront of technological innovation. With Garmin G3000 PRIME as its core, pilots gain access to synthetic vision technology (SVT), automatic flight control systems, dual flight management systems (FMS), and enhanced weather radar capabilities. These features are especially valuable in high-traffic or challenging environments, where split-second decision-making is essential.
Beyond the cockpit, Textron has implemented numerous refinements to the aircraft’s cabin and operational features. These include new lighting systems, upgraded materials, improved connectivity, and optimized layouts that enhance passenger comfort and functionality for operators who frequently use the aircraft for business travel.
A Legacy of Innovation and Performance
The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the latest evolution of the widely respected Citation CJ4, which itself is part of the larger Citation family—a brand synonymous with performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Citation jets have been the most popular line of business aircraft in the world for decades, with thousands of units delivered globally and a track record of operational excellence.
The CJ4 Gen3 continues that legacy by maintaining the performance profile that made the CJ4 a favorite among owner-operators and charter services alike. With a maximum range of over 2,100 nautical miles, seating for up to 10 passengers, and outstanding short-runway performance, the aircraft offers flexibility for both domestic and international missions. The Gen3 updates ensure that this capability is paired with the latest technology and luxury expected in modern business jets.
“The Citation family has earned a reputation for reliability, performance, and low operating costs, and we’re building on that legacy with the CJ4 Gen3,” said Hearne. “Our goal is to deliver an aircraft that operators will be excited to fly and proud to own.”
Progress Toward Certification and Entry into Service
The introduction of the second test aircraft is a strong signal of the program’s momentum as it advances through the certification process. Textron Aviation expects the Citation CJ4 Gen3 to enter service in 2026, pending completion of all necessary regulatory evaluations and performance verifications.
The flight test program includes a rigorous series of checks designed to ensure the aircraft meets or exceeds all safety, performance, and usability standards set by regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and international equivalents. These tests include everything from structural stress analysis and avionics validation to flight handling in a variety of environmental and operational scenarios.
As the P1 aircraft joins the prototype in active testing, Textron’s engineering teams will gather valuable data to refine system performance and confirm that the aircraft behaves as intended under real-world conditions. This data will also be used to optimize pilot training programs and maintenance documentation, helping customers transition smoothly into CJ4 Gen3 operations once the aircraft is certified and delivered.
Responding to Market Demand
Textron Aviation’s investment in the CJ4 Gen3 comes in response to sustained global demand for light business jets that combine performance, comfort, and operational efficiency. The light jet segment continues to be one of the most active in the general aviation market, with customers ranging from corporate flight departments to charter services, medical transport providers, and individual owner-operators.
In an increasingly competitive market, aircraft manufacturers must continually innovate to differentiate their offerings. The CJ4 Gen3 stands out by offering one of the most comprehensive standard equipment packages in its class, combined with industry-leading support from Textron’s global network of service centers and authorized providers.
“Our customers are looking for aircraft that are not only capable but also intuitive and enjoyable to operate,” said Hearne. “With the CJ4 Gen3, we are delivering an aircraft that meets those needs and more. Whether it’s the advanced avionics, the refined cabin experience, or the confidence that comes with the Citation name, the Gen3 is a compelling choice for modern operators.”
As the program continues, the successful flight of the P1 aircraft marks another step toward bringing the Citation CJ4 Gen3 to market. With flight testing underway and customer interest growing, Textron Aviation is well-positioned to reinforce its leadership in the light jet segment.
By combining proven performance with next-generation enhancements, the CJ4 Gen3 is poised to meet the needs of a new generation of business jet operators who value innovation, safety, and efficiency. With certification targeted for 2026, all eyes will be on the continued progress of the flight test program as Textron moves closer to delivering its latest addition to the Citation legacy.
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