Textron Aviation Inc. has delivered its 500th Cessna Citation Latitude business jet, a milestone that underscores the aircraft’s status as the world’s best-selling midsize jet. Manufactured at its Wichita, Kansas, facility, the Latitude remains a cornerstone of the company’s portfolio, combining performance and passenger comfort for its global clientele.
The Latitude features a stand-up, flat-floor cabin measuring 6 feet in height, accommodating up to nine passengers. Its operational capabilities include a maximum cruise speed of 446 knots and a four-passenger range of 2,700 nautical miles at high-speed cruise. The jet’s design also allows for efficient takeoff from shorter runways, with a required field length of 3,580 feet, and supports a full-fuel payload capacity of 1,000 pounds.
The achievement reflects the dedication of Textron Aviation’s manufacturing team, as highlighted by Eric Cardinali, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing. ‘The rollout of the 500th Citation Latitude is a testament to the employees who build this aircraft with dedication and pride every day,’ he stated. Meanwhile, Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing, emphasized the jet’s appeal: ‘Customers around the world continue to choose the Latitude because it delivers the comfort, versatility, and value they need to accomplish their missions with confidence.’
Textron Aviation, which also produces models from Beechcraft, Cessna, Hawker, and Pipistrel, has expanded its offerings through acquisitions and innovation. The Latitude’s success underscores the broader aviation industry’s trend toward mid-sized jets that balance efficiency, capacity, and luxury for business travelers.
