Integration releases the reins

Cessna's new Citation Mustang launches the company into a new market for business jets, helped by the latest PLM solutions from IBM.

At the National Business Aviation Association convention in September 2002, Cessna unveiled the Citation Mustang, an all-new, entry-level business jet. With two turbofan engines and space for two pilots and four passengers, the new airplane will have a cruising speed of 340 knot, a maximum operating altitude of 41,000 ft, and a takeoff distance of 3120 ft at MTOW (maximum take-off weight). The Mustang will have a VFR (visual flight rules) range of 1300 nmi.

With more than 200 orders already taken, approximately half U.S. and half international customers, the assembly plant in Independence, KS, is expected to more than double its workforce by the time the aircraft is in full production. Certification is expected in mid-2006, with first customer deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2006.