Jet.AI transitions to Textron with new Citation CJ4 order

CJ4 Gen 2 Interior

Fractional jet ownership, jet card services, and aviation technology provider Jet.AI announced expansion of its fleet with an order for three Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2 jets from Textron Aviation.

This decision, disclosed in a SEC filing, marks a strategic shift away from Jet.AI’s initial reliance on HondaJets as it now looks to diversify its offerings and capabilities. The Citation CJ4 can accommodate up to nine passengers and has a range of over 2,000 nautical miles, making it well-suited for Jet.AI’s diverse client base.

The purchase agreement, formalised on October 31, 2024, was conducted through Jet.AI’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Galilee LLC.

The filing showed that “upon execution of the purchase agreement an initial deposit was paid for each aircraft,” with additional deposits scheduled in increments from November 2024 to August 2025.

The company expects to receive delivery of the jets in the third and fourth quarters of 2026.

The company said that it chose Citation CJ4 Gen2 for its balance of performance, cabin comfort, and range. Jet.AI plans to configure aircraft to meet Jet.AI’s specific requirements, enhancing the experience for private and fractional ownership clients.

Jet.AI said its agreement with Textron specifies “obligations with respect to aircraft specifications and configurations” to ensure each CJ4 is meticulously outfitted according to Jet.AI’s high standards, including optional interior and equipment features tailored to meet both functional and luxury needs.

This transition to Textron’s fleet also aligns Jet.AI with several other industry frontrunners, including Fly Alliance and NetJets, which have leveraged Textron aircraft to bolster their fractional ownership programs.

NetJets, one of the largest players in private aviation, secured options for up to 1,500 Textron aircraft over 15 years.

Jet.AI’s shift in fleet strategy is also a response to evolving client demands in the private aviation sector, which has seen consistent growth in both fractional ownership and jet card memberships as more individuals and companies turn to private travel for flexibility and convenience.

The SEC filing underscores Jet.AI’s optimism for the future, anticipating that these new jets will “align with [our] long-term growth strategy” and foster continued momentum in the competitive private aviation market.