Textron Aviation has reached an important milestone in the development of its next-generation light business jet portfolio. The prototype of the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3 has completed its first flight, moving the program into the next phase of flight testing ahead of planned FAA certification and entry into service in 2027.
The first flight took place on June 2, 2026, from Wichita, Kansas, and lasted 2.7 hours. The aircraft was flown by test pilot Andrew Thorson and flight test engineer Tanner Towns. During the flight, the team evaluated the aircraft’s basic handling characteristics and key systems, with the M2 Gen3 reaching a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet and a maximum speed of 263 knots.
According to Textron Aviation, the aircraft’s systems and software performed as expected, while all planned validation checks during the first flight were completed successfully. Towns said the flight was smooth and uneventful, adding that it confirmed a strong foundation for the next phase of the test program.
The new M2 Gen3 is part of a broader renewal of the Citation lineup, as Textron Aviation continues to invest in the light jet segment. One of the most important upgrades compared with the previous generation is the introduction of Garmin Emergency Autoland, a technology that can automatically take control of the aircraft and perform a landing in an emergency.
Together with the Garmin G3000 avionics suite and autothrottle capability, the Citation M2 Gen3 is aimed at customers looking for simpler operation, a higher level of automation and improved safety, while retaining the performance and operational reliability for which the Citation family is known.
Textron Aviation says the new model was developed with a focus on comfort and productivity for both pilots and passengers. The cabin features a refreshed interior, ambient lighting, illuminated cupholders, wireless charging, and USB-A and USB-C ports. An optional folding side-facing seat is also available and can double as additional cargo space.
The Citation M2 Gen3 will offer a maximum range of 1,550 nautical miles and a maximum payload of 1,510 pounds. The aircraft can accommodate up to eight occupants, while baggage capacity is up to 725 pounds. This keeps the M2 Gen3 positioned as the entry-level jet in the Citation family, but with significant technology and cabin upgrades designed to meet the expectations of a new generation of business aviation customers.
