Las Vegas, Nevada

Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype takes flight, propelling the program into advanced testing

Textron Aviation's Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft took to the skies for the first time in early October.

The announcement of this milestone flight follows the company’s unveiling of three new Gen3 products to its Citation light jet family at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas.

These next-generation business jets - the Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 - build upon the legacy of the Citation family, which has long been recognized as the most popular line of business jets worldwide.

“The first flight of the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft marks a major step forward in the flight test program, paving the way for future certification and delivery to customers,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering & Programs. “Our flight test pilots reported that the aircraft flew well and performed to the levels we anticipated. The program will now move into a rigorous testing phase, ensuring the aircraft meets the highest performance standards.”

Piloted by senior test pilot Corey Eckhart and chief test pilot Ed Wenninger, the CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft, powered by two Williams International FJ44-4A turbofan engines, took off from the company’s west Wichita campus at Eisenhower National Airport. The team evaluated the new avionics systems, along with the propulsion, environmental and flight control systems, during the 1 hour and 47-minute flight.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is the first business jet to announce inclusion of the all-new Garmin G3000 PRIME next-generation avionics suite. PRIME brings exceptional control to the pilot experience, with a streamlined touchscreen and smoother flight deck flow, reducing pilot workload. Additionally, the CJ4 Gen3 includes Garmin Autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland, further enhancing operational efficiency.

The CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft will continue in the testing program as the team’s focus turns to aircraft systems, engine, avionics and overall performance. The aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2026.