Citation CJ3 flexes its wings

Cessna’s newest light business jet, the Citation CJ3, completed its first two flights from Wichita Mid-Continent Airport on April 17. This is the first time the company has done both a first flight and a second flight on the same day. On the first flight, pilots Dan Morris and Russ Williams tested the CJ3’s basic stability and control; operated the landing gear, flaps, speedbrakes and trim system; and evaluated engine operating characteristics and low-speed flight capabilities. On the second flight, the pilots tested handling with a forward cg.

Since the CJ3 was unveiled last September, orders for more than 160 have been received. The CJ3 is priced at $5.895 million in 2003 dollars. Type certification is anticipated in the second quarter of next year, with first customer deliveries following in the third quarter of next year.