The first production-representative Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 has rolled out of Textron Aviation’s factory in Wichita, bringing the updated light jet closer to service entry, the company announced on Tuesday morning.
Textron launched the Gen3 at NBAA-BACE 2024 as the latest version of its largest Citation CJ light jet family, adding touchscreen Garmin G3000 Prime avionics, redesigned winglets, and cabin refinements.
The first Gen3 prototype flew in 2024, followed in May 2025 by a second test aircraft (P1) focused on avionics and human factors. When Textron delivered its 500th CJ4 in August, the company said the two test jets had logged more than 880 hours.
According to Textron, the CJ4 Gen3 will be the first light jet on the market with Garmin Autoland. The system can take control of the airplane if the pilot becomes incapacitated, select a suitable airport, and land there.
Expected performance specifications for the CJ4 Gen3 include a 2,165-nm range, a maximum cruise speed of 451 ktas, and a 6,930-pound useful load, with seating for up to 11 occupants.
“This rollout is a visible result of the care, precision, and teamwork that move an aircraft from design intent to a production-ready airplane,” said Eric Cardinali, Textron Aviation’s senior v-p of manufacturing operations.
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