Cessna's Citation Ten prototype, the largest and fastest business jet yet from Cessna, has successfully made its first flight.
The January 17 flight lasted more than two hours and included tests of stability and control, handling qualities, functional operations including the autopilot and autothrottle system, engine operability and avionics, before landing at Cessna’s main manufacturing facility at Wichita, Mid-Continent Airport in Kansas.
“It took a significant amount of work by a large number of people to get us to this milestone today and I am happy to report that the aircraft performed exceptionally well and handling characteristics were excellent,” Cessna’s engineering test pilot, Michael Voigt, who flew the prototype, said.
“All systems functioned as expected, including the Garmin G5000 avionics system. We are looking forward to a successful flight test program and FAA certification.”
First announced at the 2010 NBAA convention, the Citation Ten is designed for greater fuel efficiency and increased comfort for up to nine passengers and two pilots. Updated design and performance features will enable the Ten to get to altitude faster and travel farther than the Citation X (Model 750), which was formerly the flagship of Cessna Citation family of business jets. The Ten will have a max cruise speed of 527kts; a certified ceiling of 51,000ft; and a max range of 3242 nautical miles.
Cessna says the project is on track for FAA type certification in mid-2013, with first aircraft deliveries planned for the second half of 2013.
The Cessna Citation Ten prototype shortly after taking off on its maiden flight. (Cessna)
(Cessna)
