Cessna is entering the large business jet category with the Citation Hemisphere, a clean-sheet design. The aircraft will have a range of 4,500 nautical miles and is expected to make its first flight in 2019. An interactive cabin concept was displayed at NBAA 2015, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, on November 17-19.
“Over the last 20 years, customers in this segment have seen little innovation or investment in new products as their business needs and mission requirements have continued to evolve,” said Scott Ernest, president and CEO at Textron Aviation. “The Citation Hemisphere is designed to transform this segment, offering customers the latest technology available and the widest cabin in its class.”
The company also debuted the Citation Longitude at the show. The Longitude and Hemisphere will join the Citation Latitude to complete a new, large-cabin, three-aircraft Citation family. “Driven by customer input, the Longitude combines the ideal mix of performance, cabin comfort and industry-leading technology,” said Ernest. “Along with the Citation’s proven design and dependability, the Longitude is designed to revolutionize the super-midsize segment.”
The Citation Longitude features a stand-up, flat-floor cabin with a standard double-club configuration. It has seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat. Highlights include fully berthable seats; a walk-in baggage compartment that is accessible in flight; a 5,950ft cabin altitude; cabin technology that allows passengers to manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device; and internet service. The Citation Longitude is also a clean-sheet design and offers a high-speed range of 3,400 nautical miles with four passengers. Cessna says the Longitude is on track for first flight in 2016 with anticipated entry into service in 2017.
November 20, 2015
