Textron Marks Updates to Piston Lineup; First Cessna M2 Gen2 Delivers

While filling that corporate imperative at the time, it’s clear that at this year’s Sun ’n Fun event, everyone from the OEM is glad to be back in person to show off the latest enhancements to the company’s Beechcraft, Cessna, and Bell Helicopter product lines.

With the return comes the long-awaited completion of a gross-weight increase on the Beechcraft Bonanza, moving the useful load up to 1,213 pounds and netting a 155-pound increase (in a standard configuration with six seats). 

The Bonanza also benefits from the replacement of other standby instrumentation to the Garmin G1000 with the addition of the GI 275 electronic instrument. A carbon monoxide detector now comes with the G1000 as well.

The Beechcraft Baron and Cessna Skyhawk will also see the addition of the GI 275 to the mix, with the Baron still completing flight tests and in experimental mode at the show. 

The classic piston singles will also see updated interiors, including new detailing, plus USB and headset port options. 

Deliveries on the 2022 model upgrades are anticipated for the middle of this year.

Six months ago, Textron Aviation announced the latest updates to its Citation series of turbine aircraft with the M2 Gen2 model. On Monday, the company shared that it had marked the jet’s first customer delivery since FAA certification, to Elite Team Offices based in Clovis, California.

“We redefined the entry-level light jet segment when we brought the Citation M2 to market in 2013, and with this integration of next generation interior technology and design, we know the M2 Gen2 will continue to be among the most popular light jet models,” said Christi Tannahill, senior vice president of customer experience. 

“We’re thrilled to get this airplane into the hands of the customers who helped shape it. Guy Stockbridge and his Elite Team Offices operation represent the ideal customer for the M2 Gen2: a first-time aircraft owner whose missions demand a versatile aircraft with performance and cabin amenities often found only in larger jets.”

While the M2 Gen2 offers upgrades for the folks in the back, from a pilot’s perspective it continues the popular Cessna Citation 525 model series with single-pilot operations possible.

The M2 Gen2 specs out with the following stats:

The Citation M2 Gen2 features two Williams FJ44 engines and updated touch-controlled Garmin G3000 avionics.