General Aviation Textron Aviation unveils new Cessna Citation Ascend

On the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE), Textron Aviation has unveiled its latest Business Jet, the Cessna Citation Ascend which will feature a new cockpit, improved performance, and a reworked cabin.

The midsize jet is being presented by Textron Aviation as a mock-up on EBACE and is currently under development by the manufacturer. The company has announced, that it plans to celebrate Entry Into Service (EIS) of the Ascend in 2025.

“Of the Citation family, there’s none more flown than the Citation 560XL series. With an 560XL aircraft taking off or landing every two minutes somewhere in the world, this aircraft will be part of the most successful business jet family,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of our teams, we are proud to announce the latest innovation in the Citation family — the new Cessna Citation Ascend. We asked customers what they wanted in the next evolution of this iconic aircraft, and we believe the Citation Ascend will deliver.”

The Ascend can be used in various scenarios, may it be personal transportation, charter services or corporate flight departments. With new technologies, it will give its operators versatility and flexibility to accomplish their missions.

The newly designed cockpit features state-of-the-art Garmin G5000 avionics with latest software and hardware features such as: auto throttle technology, new 14-inch displays with split-screen capabilities and cockpit voice and data satellite transceiver.

Cessna’s Ascend will be powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, that will deliver better fuel efficiency, longer time-on-wing, and increased thrust. Furthermore, design improvements allow for a higher combination of payload and fuel load.

“The Cessna Citation Ascend builds upon more than 20 years of the 560XL series success in the market,” added Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “It’s designed to outperform and take our customers further in style.”

In the cabin, new design features have been developed with owners, pilots, mechanics, and passengers. The interior is fully customizable to meet their standards. Also, a flat floor will provide a new level of legroom.

“The flat floor is a game changer when it comes to comfort,” explained Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, Customer Experience. “The design gives passengers more room to swivel their seats, stretch their legs and comfortably move around the cabin.”

The 12-passenger capable aircraft will undergo an intensive flight-test programe before entering into service in two years.