Cessna Longitude: A Comprehensive Guide

The Cessna Citation Longitude is a super-midsize business jet developed by Cessna, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation. Known for its long-range capabilities and impressive performance, the Longitude has made a significant impact in the aviation industry since its introduction. This guide covers the key features, performance specs, interior layout, and market positioning of the Cessna Longitude.

Development and Introduction

The development of the Cessna Longitude began in 2012, with the aircraft making its first flight in October 2016. The jet received its FAA type certification in September 2019, marking a major milestone for Cessna. The Longitude was designed to fill the gap between Cessna’s Citation Latitude and Citation Sovereign+ models, offering enhanced performance, range, and luxury.

Performance Specifications

The Longitude is powered by two Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines, each providing 7,665 pounds of thrust. This power enables the jet to achieve a maximum cruise speed of 483 knots and a high-speed cruise of 476 knots. The aircraft’s maximum range is 3,500 nautical miles, allowing for non-stop flights from New York to Paris or from Los Angeles to Honolulu.

Key performance specifications of the Cessna Longitude include:

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 39,500 pounds
• Maximum Landing Weight: 34,650 pounds
• Maximum Payload: 2,500 pounds
• Full Fuel Payload: 1,600 pounds
• Takeoff Distance: 4,810 feet
• Landing Distance: 3,170 feet

Interior and Comfort

The cabin of the Cessna Longitude is designed with passenger comfort in mind. With a stand-up height of 6 feet and a flat floor, the cabin offers ample space for passengers to move around. The jet can accommodate up to 12 passengers in a standard configuration, with options for different layouts to suit various needs.

Features of the Longitude’s interior include:

• Club seating in the forward cabin, with optional berthing seats for overnight flights
• Aft divan or conference seating with a table
• A well-equipped galley for in-flight meal preparation
• High-speed internet, satellite phone, and wireless cabin management system
• Fully enclosed lavatory with vanity and storage
• Generous baggage compartment accessible during flight

Flight Deck and Technology

The Cessna Longitude is equipped with the Garmin G5000 avionics suite, which offers advanced features to enhance flight safety and efficiency. The flight deck includes three high-resolution touch-screen displays, synthetic vision technology, and advanced weather radar. Pilots benefit from intuitive controls and enhanced situational awareness, making the aircraft easier to operate.

Key technologies in the Longitude’s flight deck are:

• Autothrottles and automatic flight control system
• Flight management system with LPV approach capability
• SurfaceWatch runway monitoring technology
• ADS-B In/Out for traffic and situational awareness
• Data link weather and graphical weather radar

Market Positioning and Competitors

The Cessna Longitude is positioned in the super-midsize segment of the business jet market. It competes with other aircraft such as the Bombardier Challenger 350, Gulfstream G280, and Embraer Praetor 600. The Longitude stands out due to its combination of range, speed, and cabin comfort, along with its competitive operating costs.

Factors contributing to the Longitude’s market appeal include:

• Lower direct operating costs compared to competitors
• High reliability and ease of maintenance
• Well-established customer service network from Textron Aviation
• Strong residual value retention
• Support for both corporate and charter operations

Customer Experience and Feedback

Operators of the Cessna Longitude have reported positive experiences with the aircraft’s performance and reliability. The jet’s impressive range and speed, combined with its comfortable cabin, make it a popular choice for long-distance travel. Feedback from pilots highlights the user-friendly avionics and smooth handling characteristics.

Passengers appreciate the spacious cabin and state-of-the-art amenities, while owners benefit from lower operating costs and excellent support. The Longitude’s ability to operate from shorter runways also adds to its versatility, allowing access to a broader range of airports.

In summary, the Cessna Citation Longitude offers a compelling package for business jet travelers. Its development marked a significant step forward for Cessna, providing an aircraft that meets the demands of the super-midsize market. Whether for corporate use or private travel, the Longitude continues to be a favored choice among discerning buyers.