Wichita, KS - April 5, 2004 - Citation CJ3 customers will be getting an even better aircraft than they originally purchased. The Citation CJ3's standard equipped full fuel payload will be approximately 70 pounds greater than revealed during the 2002 NBAA convention, when the aircraft was announced. The CJ3s full fuel payload has increased from 800 to 870 pounds. This improvement will allow operators to use the additional payload capability to add more optional equipment, passengers, or baggage while taking full advantage of the maximum range of the aircraft.
Cessna has three CJ3 flight test airplanes in the certification program, which have flown 626.7 hours in 403 flights. Certification tests currently underway include climb and takeoff performance, autopilot, avionics, and emergency descent profile testing.
In addition to daily certification flights, Cessna is working with FlightSafety International to develop the CJ3 flight simulator. Approximately 85% of data necessary to certify the flight simulator has been collected. Cessna expects the Citation CJ3 simulator to be fully operational by first customer delivery.
The Citation CJ3 builds upon the successful features of the CitationJet family, while incorporating a longer cabin, new Williams International FJ44-3A engines and advanced Collins avionics. Cessna anticipates CJ3 certification in mid-2004 with first customer deliveries in late 2004.
Cessna Aircraft Company is a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT). Textron is a $10 billion multi-industry company with more than 43,000 employees in 40 countries. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO and Greenlee, among others. More information is available at www.textron.com. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at www.cessna.com.
For additional information or questions about the general aviation industry, contact the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) at 202-393-1500 or www.GAMA.aero.