The 400th Cessna Citation Latitude business jet has officially rolled out of production at Textron Aviation Inc.’s factory in Wichita, Kansas. This milestone was celebrated by employees at the company’s Wichita headquarters and the aircraft is slated for delivery later this year.
The Cessna Citation Latitude, a midsize business jet designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has been a notable player in the business aviation market since its certification in 2015. Over the past eight years, it has consistently been the world’s most-delivered midsize business jet, appreciated by customers for its reliability, versatility, and a range of 2,700 nautical miles (5,000 kilometers).
Todd McKee, senior vice president of Integrated Supply Chain, commented on the achievement, stating, “The Citation Latitude has redefined aircraft performance, efficiency, and cabin experience. Thanks to the dedication and skill of our team, we are continuously innovating and enhancing the Citation jets’ design and manufacturing process.”
The production of the Citation Latitude incorporates several technological advancements. These include automated robotics, monolithic machined structures, and ergonomically friendly tooling stations, all contributing to precise and high-quality builds. As a result, customers benefit from extended maintenance intervals and minimized aircraft downtime.
The Citation Latitude accommodates up to nine passengers and is capable of nonstop flights between major cities such as Los Angeles and New York or Geneva and Riyadh. It is utilized across various sectors including corporate aviation, charter services, personal travel, air ambulance, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), utility transport, aerial survey, flight inspection, training, and other specialized missions.
One of the key features of the Citation Latitude is its take-off field length of 3,580 feet at maximum takeoff weight, which allows for greater range capabilities from shorter runways. The interior boasts an open, spacious, and bright cabin environment with a flat floor and a cabin height of six feet, offering a refined experience for passengers.
Textron Aviation’s continuous innovations in the design and manufacturing process of the Citation Latitude reflect a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, solidifying its position as a leader in the midsize business jet market.