ABOVE: The Cessna Citation Ascend is expected to make its first flight before the end of 2023
Textron Aviation has announced the latest Cessna Citation business jet in the 560XL series, the Cessna Citation Ascend, expected to enter into service in 2025.
The mockup was unveiled during the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) and the aircraft – still currently under development – is projected to enter into service in 2025.
“Of the Citation family, there’s none more flown than the Citation 560XL series,” noted Rob Draper, President and CEO, Textron Aviation. “We asked customers what they wanted in the next evolution of this iconic aircraft, and we believe the Citation Ascend will deliver”.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, the Ascend will feature a FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control)-equipped flight deck, “enabling the new autothrottle technology and ensuring they operate at their maximum efficiency and with reduced pilot workload”.
The Ascend will also offer “state-of-the-art Garmin G5000 avionics featuring the latest software and hardware”, including three 14-inch ultra high-resolution displays with split-screen capabilities, standard dual flight management systems, and synthetic vision to render obstacles like mountain or terrain.
The flight deck includes a Garmin G500 avionics suite.
Preliminary performance targets indicate the jet, able to carry up to twelve passengers, will possess a maximum cruise speed of 441 ktas and the ability to climb direct to 45,000ft. With four passengers on board, its range is an estimated 1,900nm at high-speed cruise power.
Cabin comforts include a new flat floor, power at every seat, 19 standard USB charging ports throughout the aircraft, an “advanced acoustic treatment system” as found in the Citation Latitude, and “all-new cabin windows that are nearly 15 percent larger”.
Externally, the Ascend will “include design improvements based on two decades of feedback from customers in the field, like a new wingtip for cleaner lines and edges, all-LED lighting and a pylon work light over the baggage area for easier loading at night”.
Textron note that the company is already seeing “strong aircraft demand” and is currently taking orders for the Ascend, which is predicted to make its first flight in 2023 before entering into service in 2025.
IMAGES: TEXTRON AVIATION
