21 December, 2018: Textron Aviation, the general aviation business unit of the Textron group has achieved provisional type certification (PTC) for its Cessna Citation Longitude super-midsize jet from the Federal Aviation Administration. The PTC allows operators to commence Citation Longitude flight training in preparation for deliveries early next year and paves the way for the programme’s final phase of certification.
“From an unmatched cabin experience to its commanding performance, the Citation Longitude truly sets a new standard for the business aviation industry,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “Our focus remains on equipping our customers with this revolutionary aircraft, and achieving this milestone is a pivotal step as we complete the final phase of the program.”
Activity and interest in the aircraft remains strong as customers experience its capabilities firsthand. Earlier this year, the Citation Longitude completed a world tour, circumnavigating the globe and demonstrating notable performance figures along the way.
The Longitude flight test programme, including functional and reliability testing, is complete. During testing, the aircraft completed more than 1,650 flights and accumulated more than 4,050 hours. Longitude production is also underway in Textron Aviation’s manufacturing facility where the jet benefits from cutting-edge assembly methods.