Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 Secures FAA Type Certification, Marking a New Era of Comfort, Technology, and Performance in Light Jets
Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. has officially announced that its latest innovation—the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2—has achieved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification. This milestone marks the culmination of extensive testing and refinement, signaling the arrival of one of the most advanced and comprehensively enhanced Citation models in the company’s history.
The CJ3 Gen2 stands as the newest embodiment of Textron Aviation’s commitment to evolving its celebrated Citation family. Drawing directly from customer insights and operational feedback, the company has introduced sweeping improvements in performance, comfort, and connectivity. The result is a light jet that not only maintains the CJ3 lineage’s hallmark reliability and efficiency but also redefines what pilots and passengers can expect from a modern business aircraft.
A Testament to Textron Aviation’s Innovation Leadership
“FAA certification of the CJ3 Gen2 is an example of Textron Aviation’s leadership in certifying aircraft,” said Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Programs at Textron Aviation. “This aircraft delivers proven performance, cutting-edge technology, and an unparalleled cabin experience—supporting customers’ missions whether it be for relaxation, innovation, or productivity.”
The certification follows an extensive flight test campaign, encompassing 445 flight test hours, which validated the aircraft’s safety, reliability, and performance capabilities. Now, with regulatory approval in hand, Textron Aviation is preparing for customer deliveries later this year, marking the official entry into service for the CJ3 Gen2.
Pilot-Centered Enhancements and Cutting-Edge Avionics
From the cockpit forward, the CJ3 Gen2 introduces features designed to make flying simpler, safer, and more efficient. The aircraft is powered by the Garmin G3000 avionics suite, widely regarded as one of the most intuitive and capable flight decks in its class.
Among the most notable technological additions is the Garmin autothrottle system, a first for this segment. This system automates engine thrust management, reducing pilot workload while optimizing fuel efficiency and ensuring flight-envelope protection—helping pilots maintain ideal thrust settings throughout all phases of flight.
Other key cockpit technologies include:
- Optional Enhanced Vision System (EVS): Provides superior situational awareness and visual clarity in low-visibility conditions.
- Intuitive Touchscreen Interface: Streamlines flight management and navigation tasks for intuitive, fast, and precise inputs.
- Garmin GDL60 Connectivity: Enables seamless aircraft data transfer, including wireless flight plan uploads, automatic database updates, and remote diagnostic reporting.
These avionics upgrades not only improve flight safety but also make the CJ3 Gen2 one of the most pilot-friendly and technologically advanced light jets on the market.
Elevated Cabin Experience: Comfort Meets Customization
Inside, Textron Aviation has reimagined the cabin with a focus on passenger comfort, personalization, and productivity. The CJ3 Gen2’s interior design introduces a fully customizable luxury cabin environment, allowing operators to tailor aesthetics and functionality to their specific needs—whether for business, leisure, or special missions.
Key cabin features include:
- Ergonomically Redesigned Seats: Each seat offers tracking capability on both the base and floor, allowing optimal positioning. Optional swivel functionality adds greater flexibility and interaction among passengers.
- RGB Accent Lighting: New customizable lighting lets passengers set the mood of the cabin, from a soft ambient glow to vibrant tones that reflect their brand or personal preference.
- USB-C Power and Wireless Charging: Each seat includes modern connectivity features to keep passengers’ devices charged and operational throughout the flight.
- Enhanced Amenities: The cabin includes provisions for an optional high-power outlet for a coffee maker, plus built-in ice and trash storage, combining utility with elegance.
- Centralized Cabin Control: A master switch panel gives passengers simple control over lighting and power systems for maximum convenience.
Textron Aviation has placed a particular emphasis on maximizing every inch of the aircraft’s space. This attention to detail extends to the lavatory, which features new CoolView skylights that bring in natural light, transforming the space from a purely functional area into a thoughtfully designed retreat. Passengers can also opt for a sink and vanity design complete with a dedicated water supply. Importantly, the lavatory is now externally serviceable, allowing for easier maintenance and turnaround between flights.
Performance That Inspires Confidence
While comfort and technology define the passenger experience, the CJ3 Gen2’s performance capabilities remain a cornerstone of its appeal. The aircraft is built to deliver exceptional range, payload, and short-field performance—qualities that have long made the Citation CJ3 series a favorite among corporate operators and private owners alike.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 offers:
- Maximum Range: 2,040 nautical miles, enabling nonstop flights between key business hubs such as New York and Dallas or London and Istanbul.
- Useful Payload: 5,530 pounds, offering flexibility for passengers, cargo, or mission-specific equipment.
- Seating Capacity: Standard configuration for nine passengers, with an alternative layout for eight passengers that increases available baggage and storage space.
Its blend of efficiency and performance makes the CJ3 Gen2 ideal for diverse operational needs—from corporate executives traveling between regional offices to charter services catering to luxury travelers.
Built on Legacy, Designed for the Future
The CJ3 Gen2 continues the proud heritage of the Citation series—one of the most successful and trusted families in aviation history, with over 30 million flight hours logged across the global fleet. Yet, this new model represents far more than an incremental improvement. It signifies Textron Aviation’s vision for the future of light jets: combining operational efficiency with digital intelligence and passenger comfort.
The 4.5 additional inches of cockpit legroom underscore the company’s focus on pilot ergonomics, while the integration of digital connectivity throughout the aircraft ensures that both crew and passengers stay informed, comfortable, and productive from takeoff to touchdown.
Setting a New Benchmark in the Light Jet Category
The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2’s certification marks not just another milestone for Textron Aviation, but a broader evolution in what operators can expect from a light jet. By blending proven performance with forward-thinking features, the CJ3 Gen2 offers a seamless bridge between classic Citation reliability and next-generation innovation.
From business executives seeking productivity at 45,000 feet to owner-operators demanding the latest in avionics and efficiency, the CJ3 Gen2 delivers a compelling package of comfort, control, and capability. Its FAA certification brings this vision to reality—cementing the aircraft’s place as one of the most advanced, customer-focused models in Textron Aviation’s portfolio.
As the aircraft enters service later this year, the CJ3 Gen2 is poised to redefine the standard for light jet travel, offering unmatched value and versatility to pilots and passengers around the world.