Cessna Citation M2 Gen 3 Makes First Flight

Textron Aviation’s entry-level jet prototype begins expanded testing toward 2027 service entry.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, June 03, 2026 at 03:06 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Textron Aviation’s Cessna Citation M2 Gen 3, the manufacturer’s latest jet design prototype has, 'successfully' completed its first flight. [Credit: Textron Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

Textron Aviation successfully completed the first 2.7-hour flight of its Cessna Citation M2 Gen3 prototype, an entry-level jet, which focused on evaluating aircraft handling and key systems.
This initial flight marks a significant step towards the aircraft's FAA certification and its planned entry into service in 2027.
The Citation M2 Gen3 will feature Garmin Emergency Autoland, G3000 avionics with autothrottle, and an enhanced passenger cabin with wireless charging, seating up to eight occupants with a maximum range of 1,550 nm.

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Textron Aviation has announced it successfully completed the first flight of its Cessna Citation M2 Gen3 prototype, an entry-level jet scheduled for a 2027 service entry.

Textron said in a news release the initial flight, piloted by Andrew Thorson and Tanner Towns, lasted 2.7 hours and focused on evaluating aircraft handling and key systems. The M2 Gen3 reached a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet and a maximum speed of 263 knots.