Textron Aviation has completed the first flight of the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, the latest evolution of the entry-level business jet as the manufacturer works toward FAA certification and entry into service in 2027.
The prototype flew for 2.7 hours from Wichita, reaching an altitude of 41,000 ft. According to Textron, the flight focused on evaluating aircraft handling characteristics and validating onboard systems and software.
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The M2 Gen3 introduces updates already appearing across Textron's Citation lineup, including Garmin's G3000 avionics suite, autothrottles and Garmin Emergency Autoland. Cabin changes include new interior finishes, wireless charging and additional connectivity options for passengers.
The aircraft retains the basic characteristics of the M2 family, offering seating for up to eight occupants, a maximum range of 1,550 nm (2,870 km) and a maximum payload of 1,510 lb (685 kg).
"The aircraft systems and software performed as intended throughout the flight, with all validation checks completed successfully," flight test engineer Tanner Towns said in a statement.
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The Citation M2 entered service in 2013 as a successor to the Citation Mustang, becoming the smallest member of Textron's light-jet portfolio. According to GAMA data, Textron delivered 302 M2 aircraft between 2013 and 2021. The updated M2 Gen2 followed in 2022 and accumulated 102 deliveries through 2025.
Despite the steady production run, neither version matched the commercial success of the Citation CJ1, the original member of the CE-525 family. More than 400 CJ1s were delivered between 1996 and 2005, making it one of the most successful light business jets in the segment.
Textron expects the M2 Gen3 to enter service in 2027 following completion of the certification campaign.
