The good news for Cessna Aircraft is that analysts expect the Wichita-based aircraft manufacturer to maintain its position as the business aircraft market leader in terms of volume over the next decade. But the bad news is that it will have to fight an ever-increasing amount of competition, most notably from Embraer, meaning the company must continue to be relentless in refreshing its business jet product lines and launching new ones.
Fortunately, Cessna has an excellent track record of updating its Citation models, according to business aviation analyst Brian Foley. “Over time, Cessna has averaged more than one Citation announcement/enhancement each year,” he said. “On average, individual Citation products are updated every three to four years and delivered two years after launch. All-new designs are launched around every five years and take four-and-a-half years to enter service. In short, Cessna arguably has the most continuously upgraded product line in the business, which is part of a successful core strategy.”
