The Cessna Citation Ascend has received FAA certification, paving the way for its entry into service later this year. This aircraft is a marvel of engineering, boasting an entirely new cockpit, improved performance, and a flat floor cabin. Two flight test jets have already logged over 1,000 flight hours and numerous certification tests, ensuring the aircraft's safety and reliability.
The Citation Ascend is designed with customer feedback in mind, offering the latest innovations in performance, productivity, and efficiency. With over 1,000 Cessna Citation 560XL series aircraft delivered since 2000, owners and operators have already praised the aircraft's unparalleled combination of performance, comfort, ease of operation, and mission capabilities.
The cockpit features Garmin G5000 avionics with the latest software, including:
- Autothrottle technology for reduced pilot workload and flight-envelope protection
- Three large, 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays with split-screen capabilities
- Standard dual flight management systems
- Synthetic vision technology to render obstacles like mountains or terrain
- Cockpit voice and data satellite transceiver for satellite calls from the cockpit
- Garmin advanced weather detection and avoidance technology
Additionally, the Ascend offers optional second Iridium data radio and controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC) for more direct routing between North America and Europe. Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines provide fuel efficiency and increased thrust, with a maximum speed of 441 ktas (817 km/h), a maximum range of 1,940 nm (3,593 km), and a 900 lb (408 kg) full fuel payload.
An unattended Honeywell RE100 [XL] Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) with self-management and added bleed leak detection allows pilots to prepare for every flight efficiently, including heating and cooling the cabin with less fuel and less noise.
The cabin of the Citation Ascend is designed to enhance the passenger experience, offering a flat floor for generous legroom and flexibility, similar to the Cessna Citation Latitude and Longitude models. The aircraft can accommodate up to 12 passengers. An advanced acoustic treatment system ensures a distraction-free environment, with cabin sound levels comparable to driving on a highway. All-new cabin windows, approximately 15% larger, provide more natural light with translucent and opaque shade settings and optional lighted window rings.
To keep passengers connected, the Ascend includes standard GoGo U.S. Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi and optional U.S. Avance L5 Wi-Fi. Customers can also select Gogo Galileo HDX for Wi-Fi and worldwide calling. Additionally, wireless phone charging, wireless control of cabin lighting, temperature, window shades, and onboard entertainment, as well as the Bongiovi immersive sound system, further enhance the onboard experience.
With its advanced features, the Cessna Citation Ascend is set to redefine the business jet experience, offering customers the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and connectivity.
