Cessna, a prominent name in the general aviation industry, has been manufacturing aircraft since its inception in 1927 by Clyde Cessna and Victor Roos. Although initially faced with challenges, including a temporary closure during the Great Depression, the company rebounded under the leadership of Clyde's nephews, Dwane and Dwight Wallace. The brothers revitalized Cessna Aircraft by securing military contracts during World War II and introducing popular models like the Cessna 172 Skyhawk.
The company's venture into private aviation began with the introduction of the Cessna Citation I in 1969. Over time, this portfolio expanded to include larger business jets such as the Citation Excel series and Citation X. The largest jet produced by Cessna is the Citation Longitude.
Unveiled at an industry convention in May 2012, the Cessna Citation Longitude first flew in October 2016. It underwent extensive testing before receiving certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in September 2019. Deliveries commenced shortly after, with NetJets being one of its primary operators.