CJ4 Gen3 P1 Jet Joins Textron Flight Test Program

Textron Aviation has completed the first flight of a second Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 test aircraft, marking a key milestone in the program’s path toward certification. Designated P1, the second test jet provides a platform focused on evaluating avionics, human factors, and cabin systems. The flight, conducted from the company’s Wichita facilities, lasted 3 hours 29 minutes and reached FL450 and 305 knots.

Pilots James Bearman and Corey Eckhart flew P1, concentrating on general systems evaluations and performance of the next-generation Garmin G3000 Prime avionics suite. Bearman said the aircraft performed smoothly and met program expectations.

The CJ4 Gen3 was unveiled at NBAA-BACE 2024 and is expected to enter service in 2026. The first prototype completed its inaugural flight in 2024. With the addition of the P1 aircraft, Textron Aviation is expanding flight testing activities as it targets certification. “This achievement continues the forward momentum of the CJ4 Gen3 program,” said Chris Hearne, senior v-p of engineering and programs. “By adding this test article... we are continuing rigorous testing as we work toward certification.”

As the largest Citation in the light jet category, the CJ4 Gen3 offers a 2,165-nm range, cruise speeds up to 451 ktas, and seating for up to 11 passengers. It includes several enhancements over its predecessor, including Garmin autothrottles, emergency autoland, and a redesigned interior.

Garmin’s new G3000 Prime avionics suite offers faster processing, touchscreen optimization, and streamlined workflow tools intended to reduce pilot workload and improve connectivity. The CJ4 Gen3 is also certified for single-pilot operations, and its potential applications include a range of missions, including corporate transport and special missions such as air ambulance and survey work.