Textron Aviation updates Citation

The Ascend is the newest member of Textron’s popular 560XL series of Citation business jets and will be powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines that the company says will improve fuel efficiency, increase power, and extend range. The engines are outfitted with a full authority digital engine control that incorporates Garmin’s authothrottle technology.

Early performance targets include a four-passenger range of 1,900 nautical miles at high-speed cruise power; the company estimates a maximum range of 2,100 nm. The aircraft will be able to climb directly to 45,000 feet and cruise at 441 knots.

The aircraft is also equipped with an unattended Honeywell RE100 [XL] auxiliary power unit that the company says will allow operators to prepare for flights and preheat or cool the cabin more efficiently and quietly than previous models.

In the flight deck, the Ascend will feature the Garmin G5000 avionics suite including three 14-inch displays, dual flight management systems, synthetic vision for obstacle avoidance, advanced weather detection and avoidance technology, and a satellite transceiver.

Outside, the Ascend will sport new larger flight deck side windows, a new wingtip, LED lighting, and a pylon light over the baggage area.

Textron consulted with a panel of owners, pilots, mechanics, and passengers to produce a cabin built with the user in mind. The result is a completely customizable interior that includes a flat floor for more legroom and easier cabin access; newly designed seats; and wireless control of cabin lights, window shades, temperature, and entertainment. The cabin windows are 15 percent larger than previous models, and the company reports that cabin noise levels are comparable to those inside a car driving on the highway.

Textron expects the Ascend to have improved maintenance intervals, more flight data acquisition technology for troubleshooting and monitoring, and a five-year or 3,000-hour engine warranty and two-year paint and interior warranties. Textron hopes the updated 560XL will enter service in 2025 via type certificate amendment. Textron Aviation did not immediately respond to an inquiry about the aircraft's price.