The Cessna Citation M2 Gen3 prototype completed its first flight. The aircraft flew for 2.7 hours on 2 June. It reached 41,000 feet and a maximum speed of 263 knots.
Andrew Thorson flew the sortie, with flight test engineer Tanner Towns onboard. The crew evaluated aircraft handling and key systems. The manufacturer said all systems performed as intended. The aircraft now enters an expanded phase of flight testing toward FAA certification. Textron Aviation announced the milestone from its Wichita base on 2 June.
The Gen3 is the entry-level aircraft in Textron's light-jet refresh programme. It joins the Citation M2 Gen2, which entered service in January after FAA certification in October 2025. The CJ3 Gen2 followed in the same month. The CJ4 Gen3 remains in development with certification expected before the end of 2026.
The Gen3 carries an upgraded Garmin G3000 flight deck with Garmin Emergency Autoland. Cabin updates include ambient lighting, wireless charging, USB-A and USB-C ports, and an optional folding side-facing seat that doubles as cargo space. Maximum range is 1,550 nm and maximum payload is 1,510 lb. Maximum seating is eight occupants and baggage capacity is 725 lb.
Service entry is targeted for 2027 after the expanded test programme. The Citation M2 entered service in 2013, with the Gen2 following in January 2026. Textron has not given pricing. Configuration changes from the Gen2 are limited to cabin and avionics additions. The Gen3 prototype now begins expanded flight testing ahead of FAA certification. Owners considering an M2 Gen3 will see delivery slots from 2027.
Source: Textron Aviation media center, 2 June 2026; Aviation International News, 3 June 2026.