Cessna’s super-midsize Citation Longitude prototype has completed initial ground engine tests, the company said today, adding that the first flight is expected “in the coming weeks.” The tests verified the functionality of the engine start, fuel system and auto-throttle as well as interfaces with the avionics, electrical and hydraulic systems, the company said. “The engine-run tests are one of the final major milestones as we prepare for first flight,” said Scott Ernest, CEO of Textron Aviation. “This step really allows us to prove the maturity of the aircraft and its systems.” Deliveries of the jet are expected to start late in 2017.
The clean-sheet Longitude will seat up to 12 in a stand-up cabin and fly at speeds up to 476 knots for up to 3,400 nm. The cockpit features the Garmin G5000 flight deck. The Longitude will be Cessna’s biggest business jet, at least until the Hemisphere joins the fleet. The Hemisphere is scheduled for first flight in 2019, according to the company’s website.AVweb toured the Longitude test article last year at NBAA; click here for the video report.
