The Cessna Citation Longitude, Textron Aviation’s premier super-midsize jet, stands out in its class with features like spacious cabin zones and quiet interiors, capable of nonstop travel up to 3,500 nautical miles. High demand and limited availability make it a rare find in the market, as noted by analysts.
Operating a Longitude comes with an annual cost near $1.8 million. This commitment involves operational expenses, reported at about $4,342 per hour by Guardian Jet, based on a fuel burn rate around 316 gallons per hour. The aircraft balances speed, range, and payload with its Honeywell HTF7700L turbofans and swept wing, achieving a maximum cruise of 483 KTAS at Mach 0.84.
Comparison with the Hemisphere reveals differences in specifications, including range and cruising speed, though the Hemisphere remains unfinished. The Longitude was introduced in 2012 at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, with its first production model unveiled in June 2017. It received final FAA certification in September 2019 after extensive testing and a global tour.
Textron Aviation, the manufacturer, showcased the Longitude’s capabilities by securing European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification in July 2021. Cessna’s relationship with NetJets has been crucial, with NetJets as a major buyer, evidencing the jet’s reliability and performance.
The Hemisphere project, though never completed, presented challenges for Cessna, especially considering the market position held by Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Dassault. Richard Aboulafia of the Teal Group commented, “Hemisphere always seemed a bit of a leap for Cessna, in terms of resources and market position.”
The Longitude is designed as a successor to the Cessna Citation Columbus, employing similar design elements to the Citation Latitude. It integrates features from other models like Garmin G5000 autothrottles, enhancing pilot efficiency.
NetJets’ fleet expansion includes up to 175 super-midsize Citation Longitudes, with Textron CEO Scott Donnelly expressing confidence in the model: “The Longitude fleet will build on the success NetJets has enjoyed with the Citation Latitude midsize jet.”
Looking ahead, Textron is exploring a “Longitude Plus” variant aiming to improve the range to 3,800 NM with increased fuel capacity. Meanwhile, sustainability efforts include testing sustainable aviation fuel blends. These advancements indicate Textron’s commitment to enhancing the Citation family while maintaining competitive performance.
