Textron Aviation Approved CitationJet Avionics Upgrade

The FAA has certified a new all-Garmin retrofit package for original model CitationJet aircraft.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Air Travel

Isometric editorial illustration of a private jet nose cone, symbolizing modern aviation technology upgrades. — Textron Aviation has secured FAA certification for a new Garmin avionics retrofit package, allowing operators of older CitationJet aircraft to modernize their flight deck technology. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Is now a good time to upgrade older aircraft with modern avionics systems?

Textron Aviation has secured FAA supplemental type certification for an all-Garmin avionics upgrade package designed for early CitationJet aircraft. The retrofit replaces legacy cockpit systems with modern G600 TXi flight displays and advanced digital autopilot capabilities.

Why it matters

This upgrade aims to modernize flight deck technology in older business jets by reducing pilot workload and integrating essential safety features. It allows owners of aging aircraft to benefit from contemporary navigation and management tools.

The retrofit package is approved for CitationJet models with serial numbers 525-0001 through 0359. It includes the G600 TXi flight display system, GFC 600 digital autopilot, and FAA Data Comm integration.

The players

Textron Aviation

Textron Aviation is a major general aviation aircraft manufacturer that produces the Beechcraft and Cessna brands.

Federal Aviation Administration

The Federal Aviation Administration is the national aviation authority of the United States responsible for the regulation of all aspects of civil aviation.

Garmin

Garmin is a multinational technology company known for developing GPS and avionics systems for the aviation and marine industries.

The details

The new avionics suite includes synthetic vision, Emergency Descent Mode, and the PlaneSync connected aircraft management system. Operators can access the upgrade by scheduling installations through the Textron Aviation service network.

September 22, 2026: Textron Aviation announced the availability of the new avionics upgrade.

Travel Outlook

The integration of the G600 TXi into legacy airframes represents a growing trend of updating older cockpit architectures to modern digital standards. This shift allows operators to bypass the need for full aircraft replacement by refreshing existing fleets with current-generation avionics suites.

Owners interested in the upgrade should contact their local Textron Aviation service network location to inquire about installation availability and scheduling. This retrofit allows operators to enhance the safety and management capabilities of their existing fleet without purchasing new aircraft.

The takeaway

Retrofitting aging aircraft with modern avionics is a viable strategy for extending the life of current assets while improving pilot safety and system reliability. Operators should weigh the costs of installation against the long-term benefits of enhanced aircraft management connectivity.