Textron Aviation Hands Over First Citation Ascend

Textron Aviation’s Cessna Citation Ascend entered service last week with the first delivery to a retail customer. That handover to an unnamed client follows FAA certification of the aircraft in November. Launched at EBACE 2023, the Wichita manufacturer formally rolled out the first production model of the Ascend during a ceremony at its factory in September.

“The first Citation Ascend delivery underscores Textron Aviation’s commitment to redefining the midsize segment with an aircraft that blends innovation, efficiency, and unmatched comfort,” said senior v-p of sales and marketing Lannie O’Bannion. “We look forward to seeing the Ascend begin its journey with customers around the globe.”

While Textron Aviation did not disclose the first retail customer, NetJets will be among the early customers under a multiyear potential $32 billion order placed in 2023 for up to 1,500 Citation Longitudes, Latitudes, and Ascends.

One of the most significant updates to Textron Aviation’s 560XL series, the Ascend brings a flat floor and larger windows to the family, along with the Garmin G5000 avionics suite and improved performance. With three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays and dual flight management systems, the G5000 folds in autothrottles, synthetic vision, advanced weather detection and avoidance, and a second Iridium data link, along with optional controller-pilot datalink communications.

The cabin can accommodate 12 passengers and features 15% larger windows, customizable interior options, and wireless control of lighting, temperature, window shades, and entertainment. Gogo’s Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi is standard but customers can upgrade to Avance L5 or Galileo HDX.

Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545Ds increase fuel efficiency and thrust, providing for a maximum speed of 441 ktas and 1,940-nm range. Other features include an unattended Honeywell RE100 [XL] auxiliary power unit.