The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 is now in service, marking the most significant evolution of the Gen2 family to date. The first aircraft was delivered to launch customers Dave Mecartney and Shannon Day, experienced Citation owners whose direct feedback helped shape the new model’s key enhancements.
Developed by Textron Aviation, the CJ3 Gen2 incorporates substantial upgrades driven by a dedicated Customer Advisory Board. The aircraft received FAA certification in October 2025.
“This aircraft represents our most comprehensive Gen2 investment,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Sales & Marketing. “It delivers an unmatched experience from day one, combining exceptional performance with new productivity and comfort features directly requested by our customers.”
Cockpit and Cabin Enhancements
The cockpit now provides an additional 4.5 inches of legroom, a critical improvement noted by pilots like the 6’3″ Shannon Day. Its Garmin G3000 avionics suite is upgraded with the new Garmin Autothrottle system, designed to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection. The intuitive touchscreen interface and GDL60 connectivity enable remote flight plan transmission and automatic database updates.
The cabin is fully customizable, seating up to ten passengers in a luxury environment. A key practical upgrade is the addition of an externally serviceable lavatory, improving maintenance convenience.
Customer-Driven Design
For owners like Mecartney, a Citation pilot since 2007 and an Advisory Board member, choosing the CJ3 Gen2 was a logical step. “The brand has consistently earned my trust with superior reliability and one of the strongest support networks in the industry,” he stated.
Day echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aircraft’s overall value. “After considering the competition, there was no equal for handling, service, and reliability in the entry-level jet category. The CJ3 Gen2 is a great next step in my aviation journey.”
By integrating direct owner and pilot input into every detail, from cockpit ergonomics to cabin functionality, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 enters the market as a refined aircraft purpose-built to meet the specific mission needs of its operators.
