Textron Aviation’s fleet launch partner NetJets has received its first three Cessna Citation Ascend executive jets following type certification at the end of last year.
On May 5, 2025, Cessna’s owner Textron announced that delivery of the first Citation Ascends had been completed marking the first private fleet operator to add the aircraft to its portfolio.
NetJets was named the fleet launch customer for Textron’s Citation Ascend in September 2023, when the two firms signed an agreement for up to 1,500 Cessna Citation aircraft.
“The Citation Ascend represents our continued investment in supporting NetJets customers well into the future,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing at Textron. “Building on the proven performance the Citation family is known for, the Ascend introduces new technology and comfort enhancements that matter to fleet customers.
O’Bannion added: “We look forward to supporting NetJets as they take delivery of their first Ascend and continue delivering a premium, dependable experience for customers around the world.”
Part of the Cessna Citation 560XL family, the Citation Ascend was first announced in 2023. The first production Cessna Citation Ascend rolled out of the Textron facility in Wichita, Kansas in September 2025.
Textron announced in November 2026 that the Citation Ascend had been granted type certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Two flight test aircraft completed more than 1,000 flight hours and numerous certification tests before achieving FAA certification.
NetJets will begin Cessna Citation operations immediately and additional deliveries of the aircraft are expected in the coming months.
President of NetJets Aviation, Patrick Gallagher, said the new aircraft type “builds on the success” of the Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude, and “represents the next evolution in midsize jet travel”.
“NetJets is the world leader in private aviation known for its unwavering commitment to safety and service. The Cessna Citation Ascend is the newest way to experience that,” said Gallagher, “NetJets is pleased to be the fleet launch customer of the Citation Ascend.”
Textron announced on December 31, 2026, that the first “retail customer” had taken ownership of their new Cessna Citation Ascend.
