Top 4 Aviation news of April

Textron introduced the CJ4 Gen 3 for 2026, improving technology and safety. Collins Aerospace joined the Digital Alliance for Aviation, improving aeronautical efficiency. NBBA announced key speakers for its 2025 conference, including Gregory Feith. Colombia's Aerocivil modernizes the Golfo de Morrosquillo airport, improving connectivity and generating employment.

1. Textron introduces the CJ4 Gen 3 for 2026 and commemorates 15 years of the Cessna Citation CJ44

Textron Aviation commemorated the 15th anniversary of the launch of the Cessna Citation CJ4, its flagship business jet, noting that the new version, the CJ4 Gen 3, will enter service in 2026. Reaffirming the U.S. manufacturer's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement of its family of light aircraft.

Since its debut in April 2010, when it received type certification and was first delivered, the Citation CJ4 has accumulated more than 450 units delivered. Textron stresses that this aircraft stands out for having operating costs 10% lower than its closest competitors, positioning it as one of the most efficient options in its category.

“The Citation CJ4 is considered by pilots worldwide to be the best single-seat business jet,” said Lannie O´Bannion, Textron's senior vice president of sales and marketing.

The CJ4 Gen 3 will come with Garmin G3000 Prime avionics, also incorporating an automatic emergency landing system and automatic throttles, both from the renowned Garmin brand. It will be able to carry up to 11 people, with a luggage capacity of 470 kg and a maximum range of 3500 km, making it an ideal choice for both private owners and commercial operators.

Cessna Citation CJ4 by Textron Aviation

2.The Future of Aviation: Collins Aerospace Drives the Digital Revolution in the Industry

Collins Aerospace officially unveiled the launch of the Digital Alliance for Aviation, a project led by Airbus and supported by the Skywise platform.

The goal of this alliance is to drive digital solutions that enable airlines to anticipate technical issues by predictively monitoring the health of their aircraft.

As a new member, Collins will contribute its extensive experience in predictive maintenance and data analysis of key aircraft systems, such as air management hydraulics, pneumatics, anti-icing, power, landing and navigation. This technology, developed in-house, will enable airlines to improve performance, increase fleet reliability and reduce operational disruptions.

“By joining the Digital Alliance, we are expanding our digital ecosystem and delivering industry-leading analytics to our customers,” said Nicole White ,White , vice president and general manager of Connected Aviation at Collins Aerospace.

“This is a key opportunity to provide digital solutions that create greater operational efficiency and resiliency for airlines.”

With this addition, Collins becomes the fifth member of the Alliance, which already includes Airbur, Delta Tech Ops,Ge Aerospace and Liebherr, The group works together to accelerate the digital transformation of the aviation sector, promoting the shared and transparent use of data, as well as the development of advanced technologies.

Collins Aerospace seeks to support airlines in making more informed decisions, with the goal of strengthening efficiency and safety across all aircraft types.

3. Prepared for the Future: NBBA Announces Featured Speakers for 2025 Conference

The National Business Aviation Association (NBBA) has revealed the keynote speakers who will headline its annual Maintenance Conference, to be held April 29-May 1 in Columbus, Ohio. The conference will bring together industry specialists and professionals to discuss key issues related to aviation maintenance and safety.

The opening session will feature a keynote address by Gregory Feith esx senior aviation safety investigator for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Feith, who conducted more than 2,500 accident investigations over his 36-year career, will share his vast experience on the critical importance of maintenance in aviation safety. During more than two decades at the NTSB, he was either the investigator-in-charge or accredited U.S. representative on multiple high-profile incidents worldwide. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association.

The second day of the conference will open with a presentation by retired U.S. Navy Commander Manny Sanchez, who will discuss leadership and technical readiness in demanding environments. With more than 30 years of service, Sanchez served in key roles in operational squadrons, carrier air wings and naval training centers. He was distinguished in 2018 as a senior maintenance officer for the Pacific Helicopter Sea Attack Wing, and prior to his retirement in 2023, he led the Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit. He currently serves as a senior logistics analyst, supporting the integration of innovative technologies in the military.

The conference promises to be a space of high technical value, where the importance of maintenance as a cornerstone of safety and efficiency in aviation will be reinforced.

NBAA 2025

4. Digital transformation in Colombian aviation: Aerocivil modernizes Golfo de Morrosquillo airport

The Civil Aeronautics of Colombia reaffirmed its commitment to the development of national aviation through strategic projects and studies that strengthen decision-making and promote the future of the air sector.

Among the most outstanding advances is the modernization of the Golfo de Morrosquillo airport, with an investment of 120 billion pesos. The project includes the extension of the runway to 2,200 meters, which will allow the operation of larger capacity aircraft, such as the Airbus A320. The expansion will not only improve air connectivity, but will also reinforce routes to important destinations, such as the San Bernardo islands, which will help reduce fares and increase the number of available flights.

The social and economic impact of this project is significant, with the generation of 168 direct jobs, benefiting the local community and promoting new regional development opportunities.

In addition, the Aerocivil's analytical office presented the results of studies that support this and other strategic initiatives, as part of a broader process of technological transformation of the Colombian aeronautical sector.

The progress achieved with the digitalization of communication systems, the adoption of ADS-B technologies, and the modernization of radars, radio aids and meteorological systems are highlighted. These advances are aimed at strengthening a more sustainable, safe and competitive aviation, with particular emphasis on the integration of technologies that connect the most remote regions of the country.

With these actions, the Civil Aeronautics reaffirms its role as a leader in the modernization and development of aviation in Colombia, betting on economic and social progress through a robust and technologically advanced aviation infrastructure.

Photo taken by: Communications and Institutional Relations Advisory Office