Textron Aviation revealed that flyExclusive has been named the fleet launch customer for the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2. The news came during the company’s press conference at the National Business Aviation Association - Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition event in Las Vegas. The Citation CJ3 Gen2, just announced this morning, raises the bar in the light jet market and is part of the next phase of flyExclusive’s fleet modernization efforts.
"We are thrilled to announce flyExclusive as the fleet launch customer for the Citation CJ3 Gen2, the latest addition to the industry-leading Citation family,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales and Flight Operations. “The CJ3 Gen2 is the ideal aircraft to enhance flyExclusive's existing fleet, offering both passengers and pilots an elevated experience. With its proven performance, leading-edge technology, and unmatched cabin amenities, this aircraft reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation.”
In 2022, flyExclusive, a leading provider of premium private jet charter experiences, announced an ambitious fleet modernization program that included an order of up to 44 new Textron Aviation aircraft, including up to 30 CJ3+ light aircraft. flyExclusive operates a fleet of Cessna Citation jets including Citation X, Citation Sovereign, Citation Excel/ XLS, Citation CJ3 /CJ3+ and Citation Encore / Encore+ aircraft models.
“flyExclusive customers expect the best, and we believe the best planes money can buy are built and serviced by Textron Aviation,” said Jim Segrave, Founder, Chairman and CEO of flyExclsuive. “We take pride in being the fleet launch customer for the Citation CJ3 Gen 2, building on our decades-long relationship with Textron Aviation. I am excited that our fractional customers will get to invest and travel in the top light jet in the world.”
The Citation CJ3 Gen2 is the most comprehensive Gen2 product to date. Attendees at NBAA will enjoy access to a Citation CJ3 Gen2 mock-up debuting during the show at the company’s static display at Henderson Executive Airport. Currently under development, the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2025.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 redefines business aviation, setting new standards in the light jet market. Designed with pilot input, the cockpit boasts a spacious 4.5 inches of extra legroom for the pilot. The Garmin G3000 avionics system features autothrottle technology and seamless connectivity for reduced workload and heightened situational awareness, as well as an optional Enhanced Vision System (EVS) to provide improved clarity and optimized situational awareness.
Passengers will appreciate the spacious and customizable cabin where they can create their ideal environment with features such as swivel seating, RGB accent lighting, USB-C power at every seat, wireless charging, executive tables and ample storage. The lavatory features CoolView skylights for natural light, an optional modern sink and vanity, and is externally serviceable for added convenience.
The Citation CJ3 Gen2 will offer standard seating for nine passengers, with an option for eight passengers with additional storage. With a maximum range of 2,040 nm and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 offers excellent range, payload and superior field performance to enable pilots to achieve a variety of missions in extensive conditions.
FlyExclusive is a vertically integrated, FAA-regulated operator of private jet experiences offering customers on-demand charter, Jet Club, and fractional jet services to destinations across the globe. As one of the world’s largest operators of Cessna Citation aircraft, flyExclusive owns a floating fleet of more than 90 light to heavy jets. The company manages all aspects of the customer experience, ensuring that every flight is on a modern, comfortable and safe aircraft. flyExclusive’s in-house Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul services, including paint, interiors, and avionics capabilities, are provided from its campus headquarters in Kinston, North Carolina.
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