Cessna’s newest Citation gets airborne
Cessna’s new Citation CJ4, the fastest-yet of all its Citation 500 series jets, made its first flight on February 17.
Sources say the new CJ4, also the first aircraft to built on Cessna’s new production line, is exceeding earlier predictions on top speed, climb performance and range. AOPA reports the aircraft is delivering a top TAS of 452 KIAS against original predictions of 435, a range of 1963 nautical miles compared to predictions of 1825, and a direct climb (without step climb requirement) 45,000 feet in 28 minutes. Cessna credits the enhancements to insights from all its Citation customers – CJ owners, operators and pilots who have provided firsthand feedback over the years:
“Guidance from operators of existing CJs proved to be invaluable when it came time to build an even better one. The CJ4 is brimming with bold ideas, subtle flourishes and smart, usable technological advancements that make it, without a doubt, the most advanced CJ ever. And one of the most advanced Citations ever.”
Aerodynamic enhancements include a scaled-up T-tail, a moderately swept-back wing modelled on the Sovereign, and an electrically heated windscreen combined with a smoother front-end profile that provides an exceptionally quiet cockpit. Wingspan and fuselage are both extended, making the CJ4 the biggest Citation yet.
A fully integrated Pro Line 21 avionics suite has taken the CJ4 to new levels of user-friendliness and intuitive understanding. The package features four huge 8 x 10-inch AMLCD colour displays teamed with dual Control Display Units (CDUs) forward of the throttle quadrant. And while pilot workload has been reduced, the cockpit is highly conducive to a manageable pilot workload.
Engines are Williams FJ44-4A turbofans controlled by dual channel FADEC systems. The engine model is a medium bypass twin-spook design with four compressor and three turbine stages, producing 3, 400 pounds (14.12 kN) of takeoff thrust at sea level in standard conditions, flat rated up to 79°F (28°C).
Certification of the CJ4 is well advanced, with three aircraft participating and no hitches expected from this latest version of the well-seasoned Citation range.
