Cessna Celebrates 50 Years Since Their First Citation Jet Received FAA type Certification

  • Which jet received FAA type certification 50 years ago
  • A word from the CEO of Textron Aviation

The Cessna 500 Citation I is a small business jet produced by Cessna. Announced in October 1968, the Fanjet 500 prototype first flew on September 15, 1969 and it was certified as the 500 Citation on September 9, 1971. It was upgraded in 1976 as the Citation I, and the 501 Citation I/SP single-pilot variant was introduced in 1977. The Cessna 500 Citation I was powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-1 turbofan engines. These engines, as well as the aircraft’s straight wings, make the Citation cruise at significantly slower speeds than other business jets, thus the nickname “Slowtation.” Built by the Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas, the Citation line of business jets encompasses several distinct aircraft families, with the Citation I setting the groundwork for future models. After receiving FAA certification in September 1971, a total of 377 aircraft were produced before production ended in 1985. By 2018,pre-owned model 500s were valued at $300,000. The Cessna Citation 500 has a range of 730 miles.

“From that first Citation flight 50 years ago and through every Citation model produced since, our business jet programs are deeply rooted in the combined efforts of our employees, our suppliers and our customers,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation. “Today’s range of Citations – from the entry level Citation M2 up through the Citation Longitude – incorporates our unwavering commitment to value-added innovation, design and production excellence and unrivaled customer support.”


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