WICHITA, Kan., May 5 — Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, achieved a major milestone as the first three Cessna Citation Ascend business jets were delivered to fleet launch customer NetJets. NetJets, which operates the world’s largest, most diverse private jet fleet, is the first private fleet operator to take delivery and begin operations with the Cessna Citation Ascend. Setting new standards in performance, comfort and operational efficiency for the midsize business jet market, the Citation Ascend builds on the longstanding relationship between Textron Aviation and NetJets by offering owners a seamless progression of advanced aircraft designed to deliver exceptional reliability, efficiency and luxury.
“The Citation Ascend represents our continued investment in supporting NetJets customers well into the future,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “Building on the proven performance the Citation family is known for, the Ascend introduces new technology and comfort enhancements that matter to fleet customers. We look forward to supporting NetJets as they take delivery of their first Ascend and continue delivering a premium, dependable experience for customers around the world.”
The Ascend offers NetJets owners a blend of productivity, performance and luxury. Key features include:
- Spacious, luxurious cabin: A flat floor with generous legroom, seating configuration for eight passengers, a full refreshment center and spacious baggage compartment provide unparalleled comfort during every flight
- Leading avionics: Equipped with Garmin G5000 technology, the Citation Ascend features the latest software and hardware, including autothrottles for enhanced operational ease
- Enhanced efficiency and power: Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, the Ascend delivers increased thrust, improved fuel efficiency and a four-passenger range of 1,940 nautical miles
“NetJets is the world leader in private aviation known for its unwavering commitment to safety and service. The Cessna Citation Ascend is the newest way to experience that,” said Patrick Gallagher, president, NetJets Aviation. “NetJets is pleased to be the fleet launch customer of the Citation Ascend. Building on the success of the Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude, our discerning owners have shown a preference for midsize jets, and the Citation Ascend represents the next evolution in midsize jet travel, delivering the latest in exceptional design and comfort.”
Through the years, NetJets has owned and operated industry-leading Citation business jets, including the Citation S/II, Bravo, V Ultra, Encore, Encore+, VII, Excel, XLS, Sovereign, X, Latitude and Longitude models. The company’s new Ascend will begin operations immediately, offering NetJets owners premium amenities, ideal range, and additional seating for both business and leisure travel. Additional deliveries of the Citation Ascend are expected in the coming months as the NetJets fleet continues to expand.
Textron Aviation supports Citation Ascend operators like NetJets with an unmatched global Aftermarket network built for reliability and scale. With 20 company owned service centers, 21 Authorized Service Facilities (ASFs), more than 40 mobile service units and 24/7 aircraft on ground (AOG) support, expert assistance is always close at hand. An expanded parts distribution network enables fast access to more than 150,000 part numbers, helping maximize aircraft availability and minimize downtime across complex, high utilization fleets.
