Textron unveiled its Gen2 M2 and Citation XLS jets at the 2021 NBAA conference and exhibition in Las Vegas this week. (Textron Aviation)
LAS VEGAS, NV — Textron Aviation has introduced the Gen2 variants of its Citation M2 and XLS jets at the 2021 National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) BACE, adding a blend of new technology and interior upgrades to its light and midsize business jets.
Citation M2 Gen2
According to an overview of the Citation M2 Gen2 released by Textron, the upgraded M2 has a range of 1,550 nm and capacity for up to seven passengers. In the cockpit, Textron notes that pilots will “enjoy improved boot up and processing speed” with the aircraft’s Garmin G3000 avionics suite. Three inches of legroom have also been added to the co-pilot position.
The Citation M2 Gen2 features the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. (Textron Aviation)
Textron has also added wireless charging capabilities and USB-A ports to each of its cabin seats. Other cabin upgrades include illuminated accent lighting, wireless charging and USB-C ports in the cabin club area.
“Since the Citation M2 was first introduced in 2013, it has quickly become one of our most popular light jet models – in particular with owner/operator customers,” Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, customer experience said in an Oct. 11 press release. “Building on its already outstanding performance capabilities and flexibility, the M2 Gen2 brings the latest cabin amenities and technological advances often found in larger jets to the entry-level light jet segment.”
Textron has priced the M2 Gen2 at $5.85 million and expects to begin deliveries of the upgraded aircraft by the first quarter of next year.
Citation XLS Gen2
The Citation XLS Gen2 features a range of 2,100 nm and seating for up to 12 passengers. Inside the cockpit, Collins Aerospace is providing its Pro Line Fusion 21 avionics, while the main exterior enhancement includes a lighted airstair door.
The cockpit of the Gen2 XLS. (Textron Aviation)
In the cabin, Textron added a new entry curtain designed for improved cabin acoustics in-flight and inclement weather protection on the ground. The cabin also features a new wireless cabin management system that includes a touchscreen moving map monitor, wireless charging, USB charging ports at each cabin seat and optional Bongiovi Immersive speaker-less sound system.
“The 560XL series is the best-selling midsize business jet family of the 21st century, and the customer-influenced updates we’ve made will ensure the next generation retains that title,” Tannahill said. “Like its predecessors, the XLS Gen2 hits the sweet spot of offering the features, amenities and comfort of a midsize jet, but with lower operating costs.”
Textron has priced the XLS Gen2 at $15.5 million and expects to begin deliveries of the upgraded aircraft by the second quarter of 2022.