Textron Aviation announces airstair door, cabin, and connectivity enhancements to the Cessna Citation CJ4 with the new Gen2 version, its largest jet in the light-jet segment. Most of the upgrades reflect ways to improve passenger comfort. For starters, the company has introduced a lower point of entry on the redesigned stairs to make boarding easier. An updated galley area has more storage options, and premium seating in the cabin provides a wider selection and more options for stowage in flight.
An upgrade to the wireless cabin management system features a media server with the capability to stream audio and video files that have been preloaded, and the ability to view SiriusXM satellite radio and moving maps. The wireless system can also be used to control cabin lighting, window shades, and ambient temperature through a mobile-device interface.
“With the CJ4 Gen2, we focused on a design that enhances passenger comfort with an elevated cabin to match the performance capabilities already trusted by Citation CJ4 owners,” said Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, customer experience for Textron Aviation. “Developments in technology have allowed us to introduce new design elements. A first for Citation light jets are the CoolView Skylights and a vanity option, which give our customers the atmosphere of a large aircraft with light jet performance capabilities.”
The jet retains the CE-525C type rating, allowing for single-pilot operations. Up front, the CJ4 Gen2 features the Collin Pro Line 21 avionics suite with dual PFDs and MFDs, and a single FMS (a second FMS is an option). Weather avoidance information is enhanced with the installation of the Rockwell Collins RTA-4112 MultiScan radar system. According to a company spokesperson, “After visiting with members of our customer advisory board, our priority with these upgrades in the CJ4 Gen 2 are generally focused around the experience in the cabin. We will continue to explore opportunities for investments in the cockpit in the future. The Pro Line 21 suite in the CJ4 Gen2 is an extremely reliable, pilot friendly and capable platform with class leading technology that provides pilots with the support and peace of mind that they demand.”
With a top cruise speed of 451 knots and an IFR range of 1,926 nm, the CJ4 Gen2 preserves the prior version’s 1,040-pound baggage capacity. List price for the new version is set at $10.75 million, and deliveries begin in the first quarter of 2021. More than 5,000 total units of the Cessna Citation Jet series have been delivered globally; the first CJ4 was delivered on April 20, 2010.
