- News
- Jan 12, 2026
- 3 min read
Textron Aviation Delivers First Citation Ascend to Customer
Textron Aviation has delivered the first Cessna Citation Ascend to an end customer. The extensively upgraded 560XL platform features a flat-floor cabin, Garmin G5000 avionics and new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines.
Textron Aviation has completed the first delivery of a Cessna Citation Ascend business jet to an end customer. The aircraft was first presented to the public at EBACE 2023, while its official debut took place in September at the company’s plant in Wichita. According to Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Textron Aviation, this step marks the company’s commitment to setting new standards in the midsize business jet segment by offering customers an aircraft that combines advanced technology, fuel efficiency and enhanced comfort.
Although the identity of the first retail customer has not been disclosed, NetJets is known to be among the first operators of the Ascend. This is provided for under a major strategic agreement signed in 2023, under which NetJets may acquire up to 1500 Citation-family aircraft, including the new Ascend.
The innovations on the Ascend, which represents an extensive modernization of the 560XL platform, affect every key aspect. The cabin now has a flat floor and windows that are 15% larger. Lighting, climate control, window shades and the media system are controlled through wireless devices. The standard configuration includes high-speed Gogo Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi, with the option to install more advanced systems.
At the heart of the modernization is Garmin G5000 avionics with three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays. The suite provides pilots with a full range of modern functions, from synthetic vision and advanced weather radar to a backup satellite communications channel.
Flight performance has been improved by new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, which have increased fuel efficiency and thrust. The Ascend has a maximum speed of 441 knots and a range of 1940 nautical miles. The equipment also includes a Honeywell RE100 [XL] auxiliary power unit with an autonomous control system.
Textron Aviation has completed the first delivery of a Cessna Citation Ascend business jet to an end customer. The aircraft was first presented to the public at EBACE 2023, while its official debut took place in September at the company’s plant in Wichita. According to Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Textron Aviation, this step marks the company’s commitment to setting new standards in the midsize business jet segment by offering customers an aircraft that combines advanced technology, fuel efficiency and enhanced comfort.
Although the identity of the first retail customer has not been disclosed, NetJets is known to be among the first operators of the Ascend. This is provided for under a major strategic agreement signed in 2023, under which NetJets may acquire up to 1500 Citation-family aircraft, including the new Ascend.
The innovations on the Ascend, which represents an extensive modernization of the 560XL platform, affect every key aspect. The cabin now has a flat floor and windows that are 15% larger. Lighting, climate control, window shades and the media system are controlled through wireless devices. The standard configuration includes high-speed Gogo Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi, with the option to install more advanced systems.
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At the heart of the modernization is Garmin G5000 avionics with three 14-inch ultra-high-resolution displays. The suite provides pilots with a full range of modern functions, from synthetic vision and advanced weather radar to a backup satellite communications channel.
Flight performance has been improved by new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, which have increased fuel efficiency and thrust. The Ascend has a maximum speed of 441 knots and a range of 1940 nautical miles. The equipment also includes a Honeywell RE100 [XL] auxiliary power unit with an autonomous control system.
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