The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 has officially entered into service. Textron Aviation describes the milestone as the most significant update yet to its Citation Gen2 family.
The jet was delivered to longtime Citation owners Dave Mecartney and Shannon Day this week. Mecartney, an experienced aviator and member of Textron Aviation’s Customer Advisory Board, provided input that helped shape several of the aircraft’s enhancements.
The CJ3 Gen2 was certified by the FAA in October 2025. The aircraft was developed using feedback from owners, pilots, and mechanics with upgrades spanning the cockpit and cabin, according to the company.
“The Citation CJ3 Gen2 delivers an unmatched experience from day one, thanks to its exceptional range, payload, and efficiency, combined with new productivity and comfort features,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales andamp; Marketing. “Customers like Shannon and Dave will undoubtedly appreciate this aircraft, our most comprehensive Gen2 investment to date.”
Among the key updates is the addition of Garmin autothrottle technology, intended to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection. The cockpit also features the latest Garmin G3000 avionics with touchscreen controllers, aircraft connectivity through GDL60, and an additional 4.5 inches of pilot legroom to improve access to the flight deck.
(Photos from CJ3 Gen2 Mockup at 2023 NBAA-BACE)Day said the decision to upgrade to the CJ3 Gen2 came after an extensive review of competing aircraft in the entry-level jet category. She said it was an easy decision.
“When we decided to upgrade our mission capabilities, staying in the Citation family was an easy decision,” Day said. “The CJ3 Gen2 is a great next step in my aviation journey, and I’m looking forward to the advances in this aircraft like autothrottles, an externally serviceable lavatory, and more legroom for a 6’3″ pilot.”
The CJ3 Gen2 includes a fully customizable interior with seating for up to 10 people. It also has an externally serviceable lavatory.(Photo from CJ3 Gen2 Mockup at 2023 NBAA-BACE)Mecartney said his 19 years as a Citation owner influenced the purchase.”The aftermarket support has always been responsive, efficient, and predictable, which is invaluable as an owner-pilot. Choosing the CJ3 Gen2 felt like a natural continuation of a relationship and an aircraft lineage that I’ve relied on for nearly two decades,” he said.
Textron said it provides aftermarket support through a global network of service centers, authorized facilities, mobile service units, and a global distribution team.
The Citation CJ3 Gen2 has a maximum range of 2,040 nautical miles and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds.
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