Top 4 Aviation News Stories of January
- Marketing Central Aerospace
- 19 minutes ago
- 5 min read
The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 began operations with FAA-certified Garmin autothrottles, reinforcing safety and efficiency in its segment, while Textron Aviation made the first delivery of the Citation Ascend, which enters service as a new benchmark in medium jets for its technology and comfort. At the same time, the FAA is moving forward with the modernization of air traffic control with the replacement of radars nationwide, and the industry is gearing up for the 2026 NBAA Conference, which will be inaugurated by Kenn Ricci, president of Flexjet.
1. The Cessna Citation M2 Gen 2 enters service with Garmin automatic throttles
The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 began operations incorporating Garmin automatic throttles, a technology certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in October 2025. This integration reinforces the M2 Gen2's leadership as one of the most widely used light entry jets, offering greater control, precision, and efficiency in flight.
The M2 Gen2 continues to set the standard in its segment. According to Lannie O´Bannion, senior vice president of Sales and Marketing, this improvement allows pilots to enjoy a more intuitive flight experience while optimizing the aircraft's overall performance.
The automatic throttle system assists the pilot during all phases of flight and helps prevent overspeed and underspeed situations, allowing the pilot to focus on critical cockpit tasks and achieve smoother transitions.
The Citation M2 Gen2 combines this technological advancement with a premium interior focused on comfort and productivity, as well as solid performance: it reaches 404 knots of cruise speed, has a range of 1,550 nautical miles, and can operate on runways from 3,210 feet. It is designed for a single pilot, features two Williams FJ44 engines and Garmin G3000 avionics.
Backed by Textron Aviation, extensive aftermarket support network, the M2 Gen2 establishes itself as an efficient, modern, and reliable option in light entry executive aviation.
2. The Cessna Citation Ascend officially enters service with its first delivery
Textron Aviation marked a new milestone in business aviation with the delivery of the first Cessna Citation Ascend to a retail customer on Tuesday, December 30. This event confirms the entry into service of the new midsize jet, announced in 2023 and designed to raise the standards of performance, technology, and comfort in its segment.
The Citation Ascend obtained type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in November 2025, consolidating its path to the global market. The first delivery reinforces the company's commitment to offering aircraft that meet the new demands of operators and passengers.
“This first delivery underscores our commitment to redefining the midsize segment with an aircraft that combines innovation, efficiency and unmatched comfort,” said Lannie O´Bannion, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Textron Aviation, who also highlighted the expectation of seeing the Ascend operating with customers in different regions of the world.
With more than 1,000 Cessna Citation 560 XL series aircraft delivered since 2000, the Citation family has established itself as one of the most reliable in business aviation. The Ascend continues this legacy with a completely redesigned cockpit equipped with the Garmin G5000 avionics system, which reduces pilot workload and incorporates advanced technologies such as automatic throttle, synthetic vision, weather detection and avoidance, and satellite voice and data communications with real-time diagnostics capabilities.
These technological improvements translate into safer and more efficient operation, while passengers enjoy a spacious and quiet cabin with a completely flat floor and seating for up to 12 people. Advanced acoustic treatment creates a comfortable environment, comparable to a road trip, elevating the onboard experience.
The interior design also makes a difference, with 15% larger windows, customization options, and wireless controls for lighting, temperature, blinds, and entertainment. In terms of connectivity, the Citation Ascend comes standard with GoGo Us Avance L3 Max Wi-Fi, with higher-capacity alternatives for those who require a higher level of connectivity during flight.
In terms of performance, the jet is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, which offer greater thrust and fuel efficiency. The aircraft reaches a maximum speed of 441 knots and a range of 1,940 nautical miles for four passengers, in addition to integrating a Honeywell RE100 XL auxiliary power unit that optimizes ground operations and reduces noise.
After-sales support is another pillar of the Citation Ascend. Textron Aviation provides operators with a global network of service centers, mobile units, and spare parts distribution, along with 24-hour AOG support. Added to this are industry-leading maintenance intervals, comprehensive warranties, and support programs designed to maximize aircraft availability.
With this first delivery, the Cessna Citation Ascend officially begins commercial operation and positions itself as a new benchmark in the midsize jet segment. It combines state-of-the-art technology, operational efficiency, and a high level of comfort for pilots and passengers.
3. FAA accelerates air traffic control modernization with new radar contracts
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) took a key step in modernizing its air traffic control system by awarding new contracts to Collins Aerospace , part of RTX, and Indra Group USA. The goal is to replace much of the national network of ground-based radars, many of which have been in operation for more than four decades.
The initiative will be funded with $12.5 billion approved by Congress to upgrade the air traffic control (ATC) system. With these resources, the FAA plans to replace up to 612 radars by June 2028, prioritizing areas with the highest traffic volume. Work will begin in the coming months and will feature Peraton as the program's prime integrator.
Collins Aerospace will install Condor Mk3 and ASR-XM radars, cooperative and non-cooperative systems that already meet FAA surveillance requirements and are currently operating in the National Airspace System. Indra Group USA received a $342 million contract to manufacture new systems at its Kansas City plant, strengthening long-term production and maintenance in the United States.
The FAA emphasizes that this modernization will replace legacy systems with a more modern, flexible, and cost-effective architecture, improving the safety and efficiency of air traffic control in the country.
4. Kenn Ricci will be the keynote speaker at the opening of the NBAA 2026 Programmers and Dispatchers Conference
Cleveland will be the meeting point for the aviation industry from March 24 to 26, when the NBBA Programmers and Dispatchers Conference takes place. At this year's event, the keynote address will be given by Kenn Ricci, one of the most influential leaders in global aviation.
Ricci is widely recognized as the president of Flexjet, one of the world's leading fractional fleet operators. His career in aviation began 45 years ago when he launched his first business in the sector. Today, he owns and manages more than 12 companies covering virtually the entire industry chain, including aircraft leasing, management, maintenance, engineering, brokerage, and sustainability solutions.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Ricci is an ATP-licensed pilot with over 6,000 flight hours. Among his most notable experiences is his work as a pilot for then-Governor Bill Clinton during the 1992 presidential campaign. His commitment to education and culture is also reflected in his participation on the boards of directors of the University of Notre Dame, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and the Smithsonian Institution.
Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards, including his designation as a Living Aviation Legend and the Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award, which now bears his name. He was also honored with the William “Bill” Ong Memorial Award, the highest award given by NATA.
Ed Bolen, president and CEO of the NBAA, highlighted the significance of his participation: “Kenn Ricci has dedicated his entire career to shaping the future of commercial aviation, creating innovative pathways that connect people, technology, and opportunities. He is a true leader and visionary in our industry.”
Ricci's presence marks the beginning of a conference that promises to be inspiring and focused on the future, bringing together key professionals to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing business aviation today.
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