The FAA has granted provisional type certification (PTC) to the Cessna Citation Longitude super-midsize jet, enabling operators to start flight training efforts ahead of deliveries scheduled for early in 2019.
“From an unmatched cabin experience to its commanding performance, the Citation Longitude truly sets a new standard for the business aviation industry,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “Our focus remains on equipping our customers with this revolutionary aircraft, and achieving this milestone is a pivotal step as we complete the final phase of the program.”
The flight test program, including functional and reliability testing, is complete. During testing, the aircraft completed more than 1,650 flights and accumulated more than 4,050 hours. Longitude production is also underway at Textron Aviation’s manufacturing facility.
The Citation Longitude has a 6ft-tall flat-floor cabin, with seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat. Textron Aviation says the aircraft’s standard double-club configuration delivers “the most legroom in the super-midsize class”. The fully berthable seats are designed and manufactured in-house and the walk-in baggage compartment is accessible throughout the flight. Passengers can manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device, and access high-speed internet. The aircraft has a 5,950ft (1,814m) cabin altitude.
The Citation Longitude offers a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,482km) and full fuel payload of 1,600 lb (726kg). It is also designed to feature the longest maintenance intervals in its class – 800 hours or 18 months.
