The super-midsize Cessna Citation Longitude has been granted certification by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The achievement paves the way for Textron Aviation to begin customer deliveries in the region.
“In the second half of last year we saw a substantial increase in super-midsize flight activity across Europe as individuals relied on these products as a transportation solution,” said Tom Perry, vice president of sales, EMEA, Textron Aviation. “The introduction of the Longitude to the European market will fulfil the international travel needs of many of our customers, while providing them peace of mind and convenience for both their business and personal travel.”
The largest jet in the Cessna Citation line-up, the Longitude has a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,482km) and a full fuel payload of 1,600 lbs (726kg).
A clean-sheet aircraft, the Longitude was designed with innovation front of mind, and a cabin experience shaped around customer input and a broad range of mission capabilities.
The stand-up, 6ft (1.83m)-tall flat-floor cabin has seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat. There are fully berthable seats, designed and manufactured in-house, and a walk-in baggage compartment that is accessible throughout the entire flight.
The Longitude also features connectivity, and technology that enables passengers to manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device. The aircraft has a 5,950ft (1,814m) cabin altitude.
“The Longitude’s versatility has already enabled its utilisation in multiple fields, from air ambulance to flight inspections,” said Perry. “We have one specially configured aircraft set to be delivered later this year, outfitted with flight inspection equipment to perform critical verification of navigation aids.”
The Longitude is backed by Textron Aviation’s global customer service network, providing customers with direct access to nearly 3,000 experts, including service representatives offering maintenance, inspections, parts, repairs, avionics upgrades, equipment installations, refurbishments and other specialised services.