Platoon Aviation to become Europe’s largest Cessna Citation Longitude fleet operator
Textron Aviation will back the fleet with its European aftermarket network.
Hamburg-based charter company Platoon Aviation has signed a multi-aircraft purchase agreement with Textron Aviation that will make it the largest operator of Cessna Citation Longitude jets in Europe, with deliveries beginning in 2027.
The deal, announced Wednesday by Textron Aviation, a subsidiary of NYSE-listed Textron Inc, will significantly expand Platoon Aviation’s fleet of super-midsize business jets as the company scales its on-demand private charter services across the continent.
Platoon Aviation CEO Deniz Weißenborn said the expansion is central to the company’s strategy to build a “future-proof, next-generation aviation platform” combining operational efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort.
The Citation Longitude is the flagship model of Cessna’s Citation family. It offers sufficient range for nonstop European routes such as Hamburg–Madrid and London–Athens, seating for up to 12 passengers, a flat-floor stand-up cabin measuring 1.83 metres, class-leading legroom and what Textron describes as the quietest cabin in the super-midsize class.
“From performance and cabin experience to the strength of our global support network, the Citation Longitude provides charter operators with the confidence to grow their fleets and serve customers at the highest level,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing, Textron Aviation.
“This agreement with Platoon Aviation underscores the Longitude’s leadership in the super-midsize segment and the trust customers place in Cessna and our team.”
Textron Aviation will back the fleet with its European aftermarket network, which includes five company-owned service centres, a network of authorised service facilities, mobile support teams, European parts distribution centre and 24/7 aircraft-on-ground assistance.
