The prototype of the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 has completed its first flight, Textron Aviation announced on Wednesday.
The nearly two-hour flight departed from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport. Test pilots evaluated cockpit software and aircraft systems, reaching an altitude of 41,000 feet and a maximum indicated airspeed of 278 knots.
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The first flight places the CJ3 Gen3 in the certification campaign alongside the Citation CJ4 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3, which are already undergoing flight testing.
According to Textron Aviation, the CJ3 Gen3 will feature Garmin Emergency Autoland integrated with the Garmin G3000 avionics suite.
The aircraft is also expected to offer a maximum range of 2,040 nautical miles, seating for up to 10 occupants and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds.
The CJ3 Gen3 was unveiled in October 2025. Textron Aviation has not disclosed a target date for FAA certification or entry into service.
