Textron Aviation received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification for the Cessna Citation Ascend on November 5, clearing the way for the aircraft to enter service later this year. The certification marks the conclusion of a flight test program in which two test aircraft completed more than 1,000 flight hours and various certification protocols. The Ascend serves as the latest update to the Citation 560XL series, a midsize jet line that has seen over 1,000 deliveries since 2000.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, the Citation Ascend offers a maximum cruise speed of 441 knots (ktas) and a maximum range of 1,940 nautical miles (3,593 km). The aircraft is rated for a full fuel payload of 900 pounds (408 kg). On the ground and in flight, systems are supported by a Honeywell RE100 [XL] Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), which features self-management capabilities and bleed leak detection to handle cabin heating and cooling efficiency.
The cockpit is built around the Garmin G5000 avionics suite, utilizing three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays with split-screen functionality. Standard features include dual flight management systems, synthetic vision for terrain rendering, and autothrottle technology designed to reduce pilot workload. For international operators, the aircraft offers optional equipment to support controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC), enabling direct routing between North America and Europe.
In the cabin, the Ascend introduces an optional flat-floor design allowing for increased legroom and configurations for up to 12 passengers. Textron has installed windows that are approximately 15 percent larger than previous models and utilized an acoustic treatment system to lower interior noise levels. Passenger amenities include 19 standard USB ports, three universal outlets, and wireless phone charging stations.
Connectivity and control systems have also been updated for this model. Passengers can wirelessly control lighting, temperature, and window shades. The aircraft comes standard with GoGo U.S. Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi, while operators can upgrade to Avance L5 or Gogo Galileo HDX for worldwide calling and data coverage.
