Cessna Boosts Range of Citation Latitude

Cessna announced improvements in expected range and runway performance for the Citation Latitude, basing its projections on data from the flight-test program for the new twinjet. The OEM expects FAA certification of the Latitude in the second quarter of next year.

The midsize jet’s range is being extended by 200 nm, to 2,700 nm, at long-range cruise. In addition, the Latitude’s takeoff distance has been shortened to 3,668 feet, down from a previously projected 4,030 feet.

Meanwhile, the fourth Latitude, S/N 003, joined the flight-test fleet yesterday, making a successful 2.5-hour maiden flight. To date, the Latitude certification flight-test program has amassed more than 600 flight hours over some 260 flights. “The Citation Latitude certification program is about two-thirds complete and has hit the mark every step of the way,” said Textron Aviation president and CEO Scott Ernest.

The first fully configured Citation Latitude will make its public debut in less than three weeks at the NBAA Convention in Orlando, Fla.