Textron Aviation, a Textron Inc. company, delivered more jets in 2019 than any other business aircraft manufacturer in its segment, according to the annual shipment and billings report published by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). Additionally, the Cessna Citation Latitude remained the most-delivered midsize business jet for the fourth consecutive year.
The data from GAMA arrives as the global Cessna Citation jet fleet recently surpassed 40 million flight hours. The jet lineup is recognized as the most popular series of business aircraft ever produced, with more than 7,700 delivered to customers and operators worldwide.
"Citation jets have redefined the general aviation industry and established aviation as a powerful business tool," said Ron Draper, President and CEO of Textron Aviation. "Today, the diverse and innovative offerings of the Citation lineup, combined with each jet’s performance and comfort features, continue to provide customers with the optimal aircraft and technical support for their travel and operating needs."
In 2019, Textron Aviation delivered 206 Citation business jets – nearly 60 more than the nearest competitor, according to the GAMA report. Citations joining the worldwide fleet last year include the super-midsize Cessna Citation Longitude, with 13 deliveries since its September 2019 certification.
For the fourth consecutive year, the Citation Latitude topped GAMA’s list as the most delivered midsize business jet with 58 aircraft delivered in 2019. The popular midsize jet entered the market in 2015 and quickly established itself as the Citation with the highest average daily utilization. For operators, the Latitude delivers an unmatched combination of best-in-class short-field performance with extended maintenance intervals and lower operating costs. Passengers benefit from the most refined cabin in the midsize class, offering a six-foot stand-up flat-floor cabin, added legroom and class-leading baggage weight capacity.
"We’re committed to offering operators the best ownership experience in the industry," said Draper. "Our employees are passionate about our customers and their aircraft, a dedication reflected in the innovation, quality and market leadership of our products and services."