FIRST LOOK • CESSNA CITATION ASCEND
CESSNA CITATION ASCEND
Textron is preparing to launch the Citation Ascend, the newest model in Cessna’s 560XL Series. Words: Yves Le Marquand
FIRST LOOK
CESSNA CITATION ASCEND
Textron is preparing to launch the Citation Ascend, the newest model in Cessna’s 560XL Series. Words: Yves Le Marquand
CESSNA CITATION ASCEND
AN AIRCRAFT from Cessna’s 560XL Series takes off or lands every two minutes on average. The almost unprecedented success of the light-midsize aircraft range means today’s active fleet has amassed more than six million flight hours.
Later this year, FAA certification is expected on the newest member – the $16.7m list price Cessna Citation Ascend. This follows the Citation Excel, Citation XLS and Citation XLS+ in the 560XL Series.
The new Citation Ascend will have a similar performance to the Cessna Citation XLS Gen with a maximum range of 2,100nm (3,890km), according to Textron. The Ascend will be able to fly four passengers 1,900nm at high-speed cruise. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines – the Cessna Citation XLS Gen uses PW545Cs – the new jet will be able to fly with heavier loads from shorter runways.
Jimmy Beeson, vice president of Product Development, Textron Aviation tells us: “Design improvements on the aircraft deliver the ability to carry a higher combination of payload and fuel load while retaining access to short runways.
“Once the aircraft is certified later this year, more specific range comparisons will be available; however, we expect a four-passenger range of 1,900nm at high-speed cruise power with an estimated max range of 2,100nm.”
“...we expect a four-passenger range of 1,900nm at high-speed cruise power with an estimated max range of 2,100nm”
JIMMY BEESON, TEXTRON AVIATION
Inside the cabin
A big draw for those inside the cabin is the flat floor. Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, Customer Experience, said: “The flat floor is a game changer when it comes to comfort. The design gives passengers more room to swivel their seats, stretch their legs and comfortably move around the cabin.”
The aircraft also features newly-designed cabin windows that are almost 15% larger than previous models. The windows have translucent and opaque shade settings, wireless control and optional lighted window rings to enhance the cabin’s illumination, according to Beeson. Additionally, the cabin includes an acoustic treatment system, with in-flight sound levels said to be similar to driving a car down the highway.
In terms of connectivity, the Ascend includes Gogo US Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi, or customers have the option to use domestic Gogo Avance L5 or Gogo Galileo HDX. Customers will also have power at every seat with 19 standard USB charging ports throughout the aircraft.
The aircraft comes in a standard configuration for nine passengers, but can be adjusted to accommodate up to 12, plus two pilots.
Cockpit upgrades
Up front, the cockpit features a host of upgrades that should get pilots (or owner pilots) excited. These include Garmin G5000 avionics, three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays, auto throttle, synthetic vision and satellite cockpit voice and data transceivers.
Integration of the Garmin G5000 avionics suite with auto-throttles reduces pilot workload and enhances the flying experience, says Beeson. A common Garmin cockpit is also an important feature for those who operate multiple Citations. “With the aim of reducing pilot workload and providing envelope protection, the suite is designed to be intuitive,” he adds.
Textron will offer a five-year or 3,000-hour engine warranty and two years’ warranty for paint and interiors. It says that it expects to be able to offer customers enrolled in its PowerAdvantage programme 18-month or 800-hour airframe maintenance; 6,000 hours between engine overhauls; and 3,000 hours hot section inspection.
Textron also plans to amend the 560XL type certification of the aircraft so that pilots can move to the Ascend through a simple approved differences course.
Sustainability
Sustainability formed a cornerstone of the Ascend’s development. Like all Textron Aviation turbine aircraft, it can fly with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Whilst customers will have the option to take delivery of their aircraft with SAF and can refuel using SAF wherever available, including at Textron’s Wichita Service Center.
“The innovative and eco-friendly interiors available for our aircraft cabins incorporate natural and rapidly renewable materials, such as wool, leather and bamboo,” explains Beeson. “The aircraft’s Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines are set to both enhance performance and reduce fuel consumption. These efforts and others in our manufacturing process reflect our commitment to contribute meaningfully toward ensuring a sustainable future.”
Textron also says its Wichita production facilities are powered entirely by renewable wind energy. About 27% of Wichita’s energy is provided by renewables, according to city authorities.
WINDOWS ON INNOVATION
The new cabin windows are almost 15% larger than previous models. Each has translucent and opaque shade settings.
SUPERIOR INTERIOR
Cabins are designed to be eco-friendly and Incorporate natural and rapidly renewable materials such as wool, leather and bamboo.
COCKPIT UPGRADES
The Ascend’s new cockpit features upgrades designed to ease pilot workload. These include Garmin G5000 avionics and auto throttles.
Target market
The 560XL Series does not get the same recognition as larger aircraft, including Textron’s Cessna Citation Longitude and Latitude. However, the series is a popular choice in the charter market, a big hit amongst fractional operators and corporate flight departments, has loyal customers and brings in new entrants to business aviation.
“Whether flying for charter services, personal transportation or corporate flight departments, the Ascend is designed to lead the market in performance and cabin experience,” says Beeson.
In September 2023, NetJets placed an order for up to 1,500 Cessna Citation aircraft. The deal will see the operator take on a mix of up to 100 Citation Ascend, Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude jets per year until 2038.
Doug Henneberry, NetJets executive vice president, Aircraft Asset Management, said at the time: “As a longtime, trusted ally who shares our commitment to safety and service, Textron Aviation is the ideal partner to help us expand our offerings to NetJets owners, first with the introduction of the new Ascend to our midsize jet class, and second by growing our overall fleet.”
Target market
The 560XL Series does not get the same recognition as larger aircraft, including Textron’s Cessna Citation Longitude and Latitude. However, the series is a popular choice in the charter market, a big hit amongst fractional operators and corporate flight departments, has loyal customers and brings in new entrants to business aviation.
“Whether flying for charter services, personal transportation or corporate flight departments, the Ascend is designed to lead the market in performance and cabin experience,” says Beeson.
In September 2023, NetJets placed an order for up to 1,500 Cessna Citation aircraft. The deal will see the operator take on a mix of up to 100 Citation Ascend, Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude jets per year until 2038.
Doug Henneberry, NetJets executive vice president, Aircraft Asset Management, said at the time: “As a longtime, trusted ally who shares our commitment to safety and service, Textron Aviation is the ideal partner to help us expand our offerings to NetJets owners, first with the introduction of the new Ascend to our midsize jet class, and second by growing our overall fleet.”
Waiting in the wings
Critics will say the Ascend is just an upgrade on the XLS Gen, which itself was an upgrade on the Excel. But Textron has delivered more than 1,000 Citation 560XLs over the past 20 years, so customers don’t seem to mind too much.
“With fully flexible configurations, including an optional dropped aisle, the cabin can be adapted to suit a customer’s needs for additional workspaces or specific seating arrangements. A time-saving machine, the Citation Ascend ensures travellers can do business efficiently while allowing time to return home quickly,” says Beeson.
The flight test programme continues to progress with two test articles, according to Textron. The OEM expects the Citation Ascend to receive FAA certification and enter service in late 2025.
Speaking at the launch back in 2023, Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation, said: “We asked customers what they wanted in the next evolution of this iconic aircraft, and we believe the Citation Ascend will deliver. With a 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.”
