Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 Flight test Programme Advances

Textron Aviation announced a major milestone for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 flight test programme with the successful first flight of a second test article – P1. Testing on the P1 aircraft will focus on avionics, human factors and interiors. The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet is designed to keep pilots a step ahead in the cockpit by offering the next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics along with the most standard features in its class.

The three hour and 29-minute initial flight centred on general avionics and system evaluations. The aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet and a maximum speed of 305 knots. Bearman said it performed to programme expectations, with a smooth and seamless flight.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet was announced during the 2024 National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), and the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2026.