Textron Aviation announced that Cessna Citation CJ2 owners can soon enhance their aircraft with the installation of the new all-Garmin CJ2 avionics upgrade at any of the company’s global service network locations, following supplemental type certification expected in the first half of 2024.
The Garmin avionics upgrade — including the G600 TXi flight display, TXi EIS, GTN 750Xi FMS/NAV/COMM and GFC 600 digital autopilot — is a cutting-edge solution for the CJ2 cockpit. The system offers situational awareness features specific to the CJ2, such as Stabilized Approach monitoring and aural V-speed alerting during takeoff. Optionally, the upgrade can also include Garmin’s GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar, GDL 60 datalink for the PlaneSync connected aircraft management system and more.
“At Textron Aviation, we’re committed to supporting customers throughout their ownership journey,” said Brian Rohloff, senior vice president, Customer Support. “We’re proud to bring this Garmin modernization package suite to CJ2 customers and support pilots as missions and technology evolve.”
As the original equipment manufacturer of the aircraft, Textron Aviation can offer the OEM-certified upgrade of the all-Garmin CJ2 avionics upgrade that maintains the system integrity as originally certified. Customers will be able to have the upgrade installed at any domestic or international Textron Aviation service center.
Rod McDermott, a long-time Citation owner and operator, is expected to be the first CJ2 customer to enjoy the advanced capabilities and improved functionality of the new Garmin avionics suite. He resides in southern California and flies single pilot, recording average trip lengths of 1,000 to 1,500 miles with an average of six coast-to-coast trips each year in his Cessna Citation CJ2.
“One of the things I appreciate is how excited Textron Aviation is to offer this upgrade and breathe new life into an amazing aircraft platform that could be flying for another 20, 30 years,” said McDermott. “By working with Garmin, they’re giving the CJ2 a whole new utility level for single pilot operation. And the fact that Textron Aviation is supportive of upgrades for aircraft no longer in production — that makes me really excited about working with this company.”
The Cessna Citation CJ2 light jet holds up to nine passengers, has a range of 1,585 nm and took its first flight in 1999. Textron Aviation produced more than 200 CJ2s until 2006.