Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 with Garmin Autothrottles Enters Service, Redefining Pilot Control and Precision in Light-Entry Jets
Textron Aviation Inc., a leading manufacturer of business and general aviation aircraft and a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has announced that the highly anticipated Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 equipped with Garmin Autothrottles has officially entered into service. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified this advanced light-entry jet in October 2025, marking a significant milestone for Textron Aviation and for pilots seeking enhanced control, precision, and operational efficiency in the cockpit.
The Citation M2 Gen2, already recognized as the most delivered light-entry jet, now raises the bar for the segment with the integration of Garmin Autothrottle technology, providing pilots with smoother, safer, and more intuitive flight management capabilities.
Enhancing the Flying Experience with Autothrottles
The Garmin Autothrottle system, now available in the M2 Gen2, assists pilots by automatically managing engine thrust based on selected airspeeds and power settings. This integration not only optimizes performance during all phases of flight—from takeoff and climb to cruise and descent—but also adds an extra layer of protection against over-speed and under-speed conditions. By handling routine power adjustments, the system allows pilots to focus more fully on operation-critical tasks, such as navigation, communications, and monitoring aircraft systems.
Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Textron Aviation, stated:
We continue to invest in our products to provide customers with the best aviation experience in the world. The M2 Gen2 leads its segment as the most delivered light-entry jet, setting the standard for performance and innovation. With Garmin Autothrottles now available, pilots gain a more intuitive and efficient flying experience, elevating every journey.”
Autothrottle technology is increasingly becoming a benchmark feature in modern business aviation, offering pilots smoother transitions, reduced workload, and increased confidence, particularly in challenging flight conditions. For the M2 Gen2, this technology represents the perfect blend of performance and operational simplicity, supporting both seasoned pilots and those newer to single-pilot jet operations.
Luxury, Productivity, and Comfort in the Cabin
While the Citation M2 Gen2 excels in performance and precision, Textron Aviation has also emphasized passenger comfort and cabin productivity. The aircraft features a premium interior design with ambient accent lighting, illuminated cupholders, and an optional folding side-facing seat that can convert into additional cargo storage.
The cabin is equipped to support modern business needs, offering wireless charging capabilities, USB-A ports at each seat, and USB-C ports integrated into two universal 115V combo outlets. These thoughtful design elements ensure passengers can stay productive, connected, and comfortable throughout the flight.
Additionally, improvements have been made to the cockpit environment, with three extra inches of legroom for the co-pilot, enhancing comfort during extended operations. The combination of luxury, functionality, and ergonomics makes the M2 Gen2 suitable for both business executives and private aviation enthusiasts.
Performance That Sets the Standard
The Citation M2 Gen2 combines speed, range, and operational flexibility to meet the demands of modern business aviation. Key performance specifications include:
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 404 knots
- Range: 1,550 nautical miles
- Service Ceiling: 41,000 feet
- Runway Requirements: Can operate from runways as short as 3,210 feet
Powered by two Williams FJ44-1AP-21 engines, the M2 Gen2 is designed for single-pilot operation while still accommodating a maximum of eight occupants. Its avionics suite, featuring Garmin G3000, integrates seamlessly with the Autothrottle system, providing intuitive control, situational awareness, and advanced navigation capabilities.
The M2 Gen2’s combination of speed, efficiency, and operational versatility allows it to serve a wide range of missions, from short-haul regional trips to longer executive travel, all while maintaining exceptional safety and reliability standards.
Textron Aviation’s Global Support Network
Textron Aviation complements the Citation M2 Gen2’s performance with an industry-leading Aftermarket support network, ensuring that aircraft remain operational and downtime is minimized. The company maintains 20 company-owned service centers worldwide, 21 Authorized Service Facilities (ASFs) for Citation jets, and more than 80 Mobile Service Units (MSUs), providing expert assistance wherever customers operate.
The company’s global parts distribution network includes seven distribution centers and 17 stockrooms, offering same-day shipping and online ordering for more than 150,000 unique part numbers. Backed by a dedicated team of over 600 professionals, Textron Aviation provides customers with immediate access to aircraft parts, maintenance support, and operational guidance.
To further enhance operational readiness, the Aftermarket team delivers 24/7 Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support, providing fast and reliable solutions to minimize downtime and maximize aircraft availability. This comprehensive support infrastructure is a key differentiator for Textron Aviation, giving pilots and operators the confidence to rely on their Citation aircraft for critical missions and business operations worldwide.
Setting the Benchmark for Light-Entry Jets
With its combination of state-of-the-art avionics, Garmin Autothrottle technology, luxurious cabin design, and unmatched support infrastructure, the Citation M2 Gen2 sets a new benchmark for light-entry jets. The aircraft has long been celebrated as the most delivered jet in its class, and the enhancements in this next-generation variant further solidify its leadership position.
The integration of Autothrottle technology not only increases operational safety but also demonstrates Textron Aviation’s commitment to continuous innovation. By prioritizing pilot ease-of-use and operational efficiency, the M2 Gen2 provides a compelling solution for private operators, flight schools, and business aviation customers seeking a single-pilot capable aircraft without compromising performance or comfort.
As Textron Aviation continues to expand its capabilities, the Citation M2 Gen2 with Garmin Autothrottles represents a critical step in advancing pilot-centric design philosophy. By automating routine flight tasks while maintaining intuitive manual controls, the aircraft reduces workload, enhances situational awareness, and allows pilots to focus on mission-critical decisions.
Furthermore, the combination of speed, range, and operational flexibility ensures that the M2 Gen2 meets the evolving demands of business aviation worldwide. Whether flying in dense urban environments or operating from regional airports with shorter runways, the aircraft is engineered to provide a seamless experience from takeoff to landing.
With its robust global support network, luxurious cabin design, and advanced flight systems, the Citation M2 Gen2 ensures that operators and passengers alike can enjoy the ultimate blend of safety, performance, and comfort. This launch reaffirms Textron Aviation’s commitment to delivering aircraft that not only perform exceptionally but also enhance the overall experience of flying in today’s competitive business aviation market.
Textron Aviation Inc. is a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and supporting innovative aviation products. From business jets and turboprops to general aviation aircraft, the company has set industry standards for performance, quality, and customer support. Textron Aviation’s commitment to continuous innovation, backed by a worldwide network of service centers, ensures that customers can operate with confidence and efficiency.
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