Summary Points:
- Upgrades include Synthetic Vision Guidance System (SVGS), GDL 60 Datalink, new taxiway routing, and ADS-B In capability.
- The updates enhance pilot situational awareness, operational efficiency, and connectivity.
- Customers may also add the optional Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS).
WICHITA, Kan. - Textron Aviation Inc. in Wichita, Kan., announced that its Cessna Citation Latitude business jet has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for new enhancements to the Garmin G5000 avionics suite.
The upgrades include the Synthetic Vision Guidance System (SVGS) for improved approach capabilities down to 150 feet, the GDL 60 Datalink for enhanced connectivity, and a new taxiway routing feature for greater situational awareness during ground operations.
With more than 240 flight test hours completed, aircraft equipped with the upgraded Garmin G5000 suite are expected to enter service later this year.
Related: Textron rolls out Safeareo 220E electric deicer
"The newly certified enhancements in the Latitude’s Garmin G5000 suite reinforce our continued investment in the Citation product line and our dedication to delivering the latest innovations that support the evolving needs of customers around the world," said Chris Hearne, senior vice president of Engineering & Programs at Textron Aviation. "The enhancements also offer improved situational awareness for pilots by increasing topographical clarity, sharpening water and terrain boundaries, improving obstacle and powerline displays, and enhancing runway and airport sign depictions."
Enhanced features
The Synthetic Vision Guidance System (SVGS), when paired with Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT), supports approach minima as low as 150 feet, providing pilots with clearer visual cues and improved approach precision.
The 3D SafeTaxi feature provides a three-dimensional view of airports, helping pilots better visualize taxiways and runways for improved situational awareness during ground maneuvers.
The GDL 60 Datalink enables high-bandwidth data exchange, allowing for automatic wireless database updates and increased cockpit connectivity.
Related: Bell Textron approves GE's RADS-NG for commercial helicopter fleet
The new taxiway routing function integrates directly with SVT, helping pilots navigate complex airports, particularly during low-visibility conditions.
Standard ADS-B In capability enhances traffic awareness and assists with visual separation during approaches.
Customers also have the option to add the Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS), which alerts pilots to potential runway overruns during landing.
The Citation Latitude has a four-passenger range of 2,700 nautical miles (5,000 km) at high-speed cruise and a class-leading takeoff field length of 3,580 feet (1,091 m), allowing greater range from shorter runways. Inside, the aircraft features a flat floor and six-foot cabin height, offering one of the most spacious and refined interiors in the midsize jet category.
