Textron Aviation announced today that flyExclusive has been named a launch customer for the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 fleet. The news was announced during the first day of the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) being held in Las Vegas, October 15-17, 2023.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 will enter service in 2025
Textron Aviation announced today that flyExclusive has been named a launch customer for the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 fleet. The news was announced during the first day of the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) which is being held in Las Vegas, from October 15 to 17, 2023. The Citation CJ3 Gen2, announced this morning, raises the bar in the light jet market and is part of the next phase of flyExclusive’s fleet modernization efforts. Unveiled on the eve of NBAA-BACE which is being held this week in Las Vegas, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 raises the bar in the light jet market. Attendees have access to a new mock-up of the Citation CJ3 Gen2 that debuts during the show at the company’s static display at Henderson Executive Airport. Currently under development, the aircraft is expected to enter service in 2025.
flyExclusive fleet reinforcement
“The CJ3 Gen2 is the ideal aircraft to strengthen flyExclusive’s existing fleet, providing passengers and pilots with a high-level experience. With its proven performance, cutting-edge technology and unrivaled cabin amenities, this aircraft reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of global sales and flight operations. In 2022, flyExclusive, a leading provider of premium private jet charters, announced an ambitious fleet modernization program including an order for up to 44 new Textron Aviation aircraft, including up to 30 CJ3+ light aircraft. flyExclusive operates a fleet of Cessna Citation jets, including the Citation X, Citation Sovereign, Citation Excel/XLS, Citation CJ3/CJ3+ and Citation Encore/Encore+ aircraft models.
“Redefining the light jet market”
The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 wants, according to its manufacturer, to redefine business aviation by establishing new standards in the light jet market. Designed with input from the pilot, the cockpit provides an additional 4.5 inches of space for the pilot’s legs. The Garmin G3000 avionics system features autothrottle technology and seamless connectivity for reduced workload and improved situational awareness, as well as an optional Enhanced Vision System (EVS) for improved clarity and optimized situational awareness.
9 passengers
Passengers will have features in the customizable cabin such as swivel seats, RGB accent lighting, a USB-C port at each seat, wireless charging, executive tables and plenty of storage. The toilet features CoolView skylights for natural light, an optional modern sink and vanity, and can be serviced from the outside for added convenience. The Citation CJ3 Gen2 will accommodate nine passengers in the standard version, and eight passengers as an option with additional storage. With a maximum range of 2,040 nm and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 delivers excellent range, payload and superior field performance to enable pilots to accomplish a variety of missions in extended conditions.
