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Cessna: A History
Headquartered in the aviation hub of Wichita, Kan., and with maintenance and support locations worldwide, the Cessna brand of aircraft traces its roots to the pioneers of aviation. Throughout its history, this brand of products has been known for quality, reliability and value that established benchmarks for the industry.
HISTORY
More than eight decades ago, a small aircraft company started in Wichita, Kan. to do what others said could not be done – to build a monoplane that used a wing without supporting struts or braces. When the CESSNA All Purpose aircraft took off August 13, 1927, the aviation world was forever changed. In fact, Clyde Cessna’s cantilever design has been the standard ever since.
From the moment in 1911 when he saw a flying exhibition in Oklahoma City, Clyde Cessna’s greatest wish was to fly. When he learned that aviators were paid as much as $1,000 per show, the wish became a life-changing opportunity for the 30-year-old Kansas farmer and car salesman. Not only was Clyde the founder of the Cessna branded company and the inventor of the earliest models, he was also the first customer. His relationship with aviation was like that of hundreds of thousands of customers for years to come – built on opportunities and desires and fueled by a passion for flight that refused to be denied.
On September 7, 1927, Cessna and Victor H. Roos formed a partnership which led to the formation of the Cessna-Roos Aircraft Company. But soon after, Roos resigned and on December 22, 1927 the secretary of state approved a name change to Cessna Aircraft Corporation.
Several aircraft arrived soon after including the AW, CW-6 and DC-6 before Cessna collaborated with his son, Eldon, on the CR-series racing aircraft. The CR-series would be the main reason the company was able to hold on through the Great Depression, despite a catastrophic decline in aircraft sales. For several years after, Cessna was forced out of the business but was reinstated thanks to the hard work of his nephews, who would later take over the company as Clyde Cessna returned to a life of farming
For much of the mid-to-late 20th century, the Cessna brand was one of the highest-volume and most diverse of general aviation aircraft in the world. Clyde Cessna died on November 20, 1954, at the age of 74 and was posthumously inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1978 and the International Air & Space Hall of Fame in 1983, but his legacy lived on.
TODAY
The Cessna brand remains one of the most known private aircraft brands in the world with a wide breadth of products finding solutions for the novice to most advanced aviator. Options range from piston aircraft leading in pilot training and recreation, rugged and flexible turboprops with noteworthy payloads and the elegant fleet of CITATION jet products that boast uncompromising style, comfort and reliability in addition to impressive mission solutions
Plus, options ranging from air ambulance to surveillance to flight inspection allow users with specialized missions to take advantage of proven aircraft for critical needs. Customizability options have only increased allowing a broad range of solutions, designs and configurations for every customer’s needs.
The line of aircraft has truly become a family. One can begin his or her pilot career in a Cessna SKYHAWK piston and one day explore the wide range of the world in a CITATION LONGITUDE jet, all while staying in the Cessna aircraft family. Nowhere else will you find the experience and legacy that comes with Cessna aircraft. Customers are proud to say from day one to present day, that they love being the pilot of a Cessna plane.
AIRCRAFT
SKYHAWK
Nothing is more liberating than learning to fly. The Skyhawk piston is the most popular single-engine aircraft ever built and has achieved a reputation for being the ultimate training aircraft.
With simplistic flight characteristics, great visibility and a sophisticated glass cockpit outfitted with GARMIN G1000 avionics, the Cessna Skyhawk piston boasts a slow landing speed and a lenient stall. These characteristics make it a flight training favorite ideally suited for student pilots and designed to help you soar.
SKYLANE
Get into the pilot’s seat of the 230-horsepower Cessna SKYLANE aircraft and get ready to experience even greater destinations. With its high-wing design and durable airframe, this celebrated piston aircraft delivers a level of performance perfect for the next level of pilot. Get in. Go fly. And enjoy every minute of your adventure.
TURBO STATIONAIR
Whether commuting with five passengers, loading gear through the dual aft cargo doors, landing on a short dirt airstrip or splashing in at a remote lake on amphibious floats, the turbocharged capability of the Cessna Turbo STATIONAIR HD piston is designed to fit your mission needs.
Pushing the limits of what’s possible, the Turbo Stationair HD piston doesn't make you choose between utility and comfort—it expands your horizons to take your adventure almost anywhere.
CARAVAN
The Cessna CARAVAN aircraft is known for its rugged utility and flexibility. With its powerful turboprop engine, the Caravan aircraft delivers the rare combination of high performance, low operating costs and ability to adapt to a wide variety of missions.
The powerful, efficient, dependable 675-horsepower PT6A-114A turbine engine gives the Caravan turboprop its exceptional payload capabilities.
Operators in the world’s most demanding environments immediately adopted the rugged, dependable turboprop and have been rewarded with unparalleled dispatch reliability. On top of more than 30 years of proven capability comes even greater value with the Caravan turboprop’s limited warranties, parts availability and lower direct operating costs.
GRAND CARAVAN EX
The Cessna GRAND CARAVAN EX aircraft is known for its dependable and efficient performance by regional airlines, charter operators and cargo carriers worldwide. The Grand Caravan EX turboprop was engineered for challenging missions, high payloads and short, rough runways while delivering single-engine economy and simplicity.
The Grand Caravan EX aircraft has a reputation as a revenue-generator. It may carry up to 14 occupants with an increased speed and climb capability, plus a takeoff ground roll of only 1,399 ft. Its powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada engine delivers 867 horsepower for dependable payload performance and superior efficiency. Experience true value with low direct operating costs, limited warranties and a global service network at your fingertips
SKYCOURIER
Reliably lifting off day after day with heavy payloads requires real performance and capability. The all new Cessna SKYCOURIER turboprop was designed for fully loaded high frequency operations and maximum efficiency. Load, fly, unload and repeat, then watch your business grow.
The Cessna SkyCourier aircraft has two configurations to best suit your business needs ranging from a 19-passenger configuration to a freight configuration capable of carrying three LD3 shipping containers. The single-point pressure refueling capability coupled with rugged landing gear means the Cessna SkyCourier turboprop gets you wherever you need to be faster.
The aircraft is expected to achieve certification in the fall of 2021.
CITATION M2
The Cessna CITATION M2 jet is the ultimate combination of beauty and efficiency. The M2 aircraft is the entry level jet that pilots have been asking for. Speed, control, range and comfort complete the aircraft providing you with serious jet performance.
Perfect for corporate, charter or private use, the M2 jet features in-cabin technology, touch-controlled avionics suited for a single pilot and two powerful Williams FJ44 engines, facilitating cruising speed of up to 404 knots. A Garmin G3000 flight deck provides an ideal flying experience.
The Citation M2 jet delivers fast, efficient trips with exceptional maximum range at 1,550 nm. The interior is finished with category-leading craftsmanship and room for up to seven passengers. A wireless cabin management system and LED lighting finish off the design to create an aircraft owners and operators love.
CITATION CJ3+
The Cessna CITATION CJ3+ jet delivers superior, unparalleled reliability without sacrificing productivity and comfort. It’s the perfect combination of range, speed and operating economics supplying you with the best ability in high and hot airports while enjoying longer maintenance intervals.
With the CJ3+ jet, standard features go above and beyond the rest with seating for up to nine passengers and 1,000 pounds of baggage capacity. A belted lavatory and TCAS II come in every aircraft along with options for internet capabilities in the cabin.
With upgraded flight deck power by Garmin G3000 avionics operating this single-pilot certified jet is so intuitive; it’s fueling the passion for flight in pilots and passengers alike. You can count on this jet to take your business and personal travel to new heights.
CITATION CJ4 GEN2
If you’re ready for your next achievement, meet our next-generation jet. Expertly designed, exquisitely crafted, the reimagined Cessna CITATION CJ4 Gen2 jet elevates your travel experience from the moment you step on board. The amenities you’ll discover range from eye-catching to productivity-enhancing with COOLVIEW skylights, upgraded seating and a wireless cabin management system giving you instant control of lighting, window shades and cabin temperature.
The CJ4 Gen2 jet also delivers the proven performance of its predecessor. The COLLINS AEROSPACE PRO LINE 21 avionics suite allows one pilot to effectively operate the aircraft. Features such as single point refueling, an externally serviceable lavatory and excellent range deliver what crew and cabin passengers have come to expect from a Citation jet.
At the top of the single-pilot class, this aircraft meets the needs of corporate flight departments and owner-operators alike. With a trusted pedigree and fully reimagined cabin, the CJ4 Gen2 jet can help you pursue your business goals while you enjoy the journey.
CITATION XLS+
The best-selling model of the best-selling brand, the Cessna CITATION XLS+ aircraft combines transcontinental range and remarkable efficiency in a beautiful midsize jet.
The XLS+ jet’s first-class cabin offers comfortable room for up to 12 passengers. A spacious interior allows those inside to stand and move about the cabin with ease. The high-quality leather seats are extra wide with full reclining capabilities for optimal comfort.
Collins Aerospace Pro Line 21 avionics deliver NextGen-ready performance as the world’s most recognized flight deck. Rest assured your whole team can fly in comfort and arrive closer to your destination, allowing you to spend less time traveling and more time at the job site or with your customer.
CITATION LATITUDE
Start with proven Citation aircraft systems. Add intelligent innovation, class-leading performance, a spacious cabin and standard equipment that steps above midsize expectations. All of this at a price for performance other jets cannot match. The Cessna CITATION LATITUDE jet offers a wide, flat floor with a six-foot stand-up cabin at a midsize price. Coupled with a range to take you 2,700 nm, you can fly nonstop with eight passengers from Los Angeles to New York or with four passengers from Geneva to Dubai. There’s a reason it’s the best-selling midsize business jet.
The Citation Latitude jet is the first aircraft in its class to push the comfort level while keeping you connected. A low cabin altitude keeps you feeling refreshed while the class-leading baggage compartment is spacious enough to accommodate your luggage wherever you’re going, whether for business or pleasure.
Equipped with NextGen-capable, touch-screen Garmin G5000 avionics, the Citation Latitude aircraft offers a large cockpit ensuring everyone in the air is at maximum comfort and productivity.
CITATION LONGITUDE
The CITATION LONGITUDE aircraft was designed with your business and return on investment in mind: transatlantic range, advanced engineering and an unforgettable cabin experience all come together with the lowest total ownership costs of any super-midsize jet. Simply put: this aircraft delivers the reliability and efficiency you need to maximize the value of every mission. Take control of your most valuable asset and see how far you can go with the Citation Longitude super-midsize jet.
Comfort is felt it as soon as you step inside: a spacious, flat-floor, six-foot stand up cabin with best-in-class legroom for ultimate comfort. We then developed exclusive soundproofing techniques to design the world’s quietest super-midsize cabin. Whether you’re resting or conducting business, enjoy the peace and quiet needed to make the most of your time in the air. Plus, between the wireless cabin management system that puts you in control of the cabin, and fully integrated autothrottles in the cockpit, the Citation Longitude jet brings the latest technology to the super-midsize segment.