In a significant stride towards certification, Textron Aviation has successfully flown the second Cessna Citation Ascend test article, designated P1. This milestone flight marks a key advancement in the certification process for the latest model in the Citation business jet lineup. The P1 aircraft, being the first conforming production flight test aircraft, follows the Ascend prototype, which took its maiden flight in 2023.
The Cessna Citation Ascend, a brainchild of Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT), was officially unveiled at the 2023 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE). The jet is anticipated to enter service in 2025, promising enhanced performance and comfort for its users.
Piloted by Michael Bradfield and Maurice Girard, the initial flight of P1 lasted 1 hour and 24 minutes, reaching a maximum altitude of 13,500 feet and a top speed of 308 knots. The P1 aircraft is set to play a crucial role in the flight test program, primarily focusing on systems testing, including propulsion, human factors, environmental control, and avionics.
“Today’s successful flight of the second Citation Ascend test article marks another achievement for the program, and that’s a testament to the many great employees involved with this project,” remarked Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering. “The aircraft has continued to perform well through the phases of testing, and I continue to be confident in the program’s momentum and in our skilled team members who make it possible.”
The flight test certification program for the Citation Ascend is expected to conclude with the two test articles—the prototype and P1—having already accumulated over 400 flight hours.
About the Cessna Citation Ascend
The Citation Ascend has been meticulously designed by Textron Aviation based on extensive customer feedback, aiming to deliver unparalleled performance and comfort. Mirroring the luxurious features of the popular Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude, the Ascend boasts a flat floor, enhancing legroom and passenger flexibility.
Powering the Ascend are Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, renowned for their fuel efficiency and increased thrust. The aircraft is equipped with cutting-edge Garmin G5000 avionics, featuring the latest software and hardware, including autothrottle technology. Additionally, the Ascend is fitted with a Honeywell RE100 [XL] Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), approved for unattended operations.
Ensuring convenience for all on board, the Ascend includes 19 standard USB charging ports and three universal outlets, providing at least one charging port per passenger. The standard seating configuration accommodates nine passengers, ensuring a comfortable journey.
For further details and specifications, visit [cessna.com/ascend](http://cessna.com/ascend).
About Textron Aviation
For over 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc. has harnessed the collective talent within the Beechcraft, Cessna, and Hawker brands to deliver exceptional aviation experiences. Offering a versatile portfolio that includes business jets, turboprops, high-performance pistons, special mission, military trainer, and defense products, Textron Aviation has manufactured over half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. With customers in more than 170 countries, Textron Aviation is synonymous with performance, reliability, and versatility, supported by a trusted global customer service network.
For more information, visit [www.txtav.com](http://www.txtav.com) | [www.defense.txtav.com](http://www.defense.txtav.com) | [www.scorpionjet.com](http://www.scorpionjet.com).
