Leopold has been with Textron for nearly 24 years and was most recently vice president of the company’s North American customer service centres.

She will oversee pre-owned aircraft business activities and sales support functions including sales operations, data analytics, customer relationship management, aviation training and simulator development.

“I am confident that Tracy’s extensive experience, passion for our products and strong customer relationships make her well-prepared to lead this team,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales and Flight Operations at Textron Aviation.

Leopold has also been a regional sales director focusing on pre-owned product sales and led a team in global aftermarket part sales and aftermarket service centre network sales

Berger has retired from the role after 35 years of “outstanding leadership” with the company.

“I want to personally recognize Ed for his commitment to the success of our business, customers, employees and community during his tenure,” said O’Bannion.

Textron announced its revenue in the second quarter increased 8.2% year-over-year to $1.5bn from $1.4bn in the same period last year with higher contribution from both better pricing and higher volumes.

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But the interiors of all these can only, at best, be described as functional. You cannot compare them with a newly completed VVIP aircraft from Jet Aviation Basel. But this will soon be David Paddock’s new work life. 

Paddock is leaving his role as president of Jet Aviation in April to become president of sister company General Dynamics Land Systems. Jeremie Caillet, who has been running Europe, Middle East and Africa for Jet Aviation, will replace him. 

Paddock took over from Rob Smith in July 2019 and grew Jet Aviation through both Covid and the post-pandemic bounce. Jet Aviation is one of the few truly global business aviation companies. He had to deal with massive demand in the US while borders were closed in Asia. 

General Dynamics likes moving people around. Smith left to run General Dynamics’ Marine Systems which builds ships and nuclear submarines. Jason Aiken (former Gulfstream chief financial officer) is also switching from CFO of the parent company to be executive vice president of Technologies. 

Moving between divisions is much more common than it was 20 years ago. Talent managers (formerly known as human resource managers, and before that personnel) call this talent mobility or scaling horizontally. They say that you should no longer think of career ladders, but talent lattices (only people in HR would use this term). 

“Companies benefit by training more adaptable managers with interdisciplinary thinking. As individuals ascend to the C-suite and top business roles, their leadership skills and decades-honed soft skills often outweigh specialised knowledge,” says Tina Lee Jebely, founding partner, The Roja Agency. “Functional expertise can be learned and complemented by proficient teams supporting these leaders. From my vantage point as the founder of a talent agency, I’ve witnessed how executives who embrace talent mobility emerge as more well-rounded leaders.”

Textron is a keen believer in rotating staff. Ron Draper, CEO of Textron Aviation, also had senior roles at Bell and Textron Specialized Vehicles (which makes golf carts, buggies and snowmobiles). Senior officials at Textron Aviation are often switched around. Lannie O’Bannion, Textron Aviation’s senior vice president, global sales and flight operations, spent a year running North America customer service, before returning to sales. 

“Moving strong executives from division to division keeps business and cultural continuity,” says Craig Picken, managing partner of executive search firm Northstar Group, which specialises in aerospace and aviation. “It is easier and less upsetting to the business to move a strong player you know to a leadership position in a new division versus hiring a person you don’t know and hoping they don’t screw things up.” 

In February 2023 Bombardier switched several senior roles with Jean-Christophe Gallagher moving to heading aircraft sales and Bombardier Defense after growing the services business considerably. 

But what can smaller companies do? 

“In smaller enterprises or positions reliant on specialised expertise, the scope for talent mobility may be more limited. In these scenarios, the value of in-depth, industry-specific knowledge cannot be overstated,” says Lee Jebely. “These roles demand professionals who have not only mastered the nuances of their field but also have the acumen to navigate its unique challenges effectively. While horizontal moves may not be common in these settings, it’s worth noting that leadership skills and a broad business orientation can still be beneficial for organizational growth, even within specialized domains.”

Lawyers who have spent years learning a market are not likely to switch from aircraft to defence. “While aircraft finance lawyers can certainly expand into and advise on other asset classes, such as yachts, submarines, or supercars, and related practice areas, this shift demands rigorous study and preparation,” says Lee Jebely.

One way of getting outside expertise can be working for an association part time. 

“Smaller companies are continually grooming people in that they give them a lot of responsibility and throw them to the wolves. CFOs often become presidents. Business development professionals learn how to run a profit and loss and take over as a general manager,” says Picken. “Most small companies are seeking out athletes who can wear a few hats and stay nimble,” he adds. “But small companies see a lot of turnover versus the bigger conglomerates. If they can’t find what they need internally, they just go outside. If you’re a mid to senior level executive at a small company you tend to groom your outside networks and keep your eye open for opportunities as they come up.” 

Paddock’s move is an opportunity for Caillet who joined Jet Aviation in 2008 and has held a number of senior roles including vice president VIP Completions. An engineer by training, he started his career at Dassault Falcon Jet in the US. 

While Paddock will no doubt use the many things he has learnt in his successful time running Jet Aviation, you can be sure Caillet will not be copying any tank interiors.

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“The Cessna SkyCourier’s high payload capacity, short takeoff and landing capability, and cost-efficiency make it a great choice for operators in Brazil,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “The aircraft’s versatility and performance equip customers in the region with smart solutions for their unique missions and circumstances.”

The aircraft offers a combination of performance, capacity and capability, positioning it as a catalyst for enhanced regional connectivity, efficient cargo transportation, and reliable regional passenger operations, said O’Bannion. The SkyCourier is an ideal fit for Brazil’s diverse geography, remote locations and growing demand for air transportation, he added.

Mission profiles include passenger transport, cargo delivery and special operations. With its short takeoff and landing capability, the aircraft can operate from smaller runways, reaching remote communities and serving locations with limited infrastructure. The recently certified gravel kit option further expands the SkyCourier’s capability to operate from unimproved runways.

The aircraft is powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turboprop engines and features the McCauley Propeller C779, a 110-inch aluminium four-blade propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch, designed to enhance the performance of the aircraft while hauling large loads.

The SkyCourier is operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics. It has a maximum cruise speed of more than 20 ktas and a 900 nautical-mile maximum range. The aircraft features a large cargo door and a flat floor cabin, and the freighter variant can hold up to three LD3 shipping containers with an impressive 6,000 pounds of payload capability.

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“We strive to provide excellent flying experiences for pilots, and this update for the Caravan demonstrates our commitment to incorporating the latest technology and innovation based on customer feedback,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Flight Operations. “We’re invested in the future of this legendary turboprop and the future of flight.”

Equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite, Caravan operators will experience an array of new advanced features and technology from Garmin. Notable additions that will come standard include the GDL 60 datalink, the GTX 345DR diversity transponder and the GI 275 electronic standby.

The GDL 60 will offer high-bandwidth data exchange and connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and LTE networks. The GDL 60 provides cockpit and personal electronic device connectivity, and external Wi-Fi and LTE networks for external connectivity while the aircraft is on ground. It also features the ability to complete automatic wireless database downloads over network connections. The GTX 345DR will offer ADS-B Out/In standard and will also include diversity antenna coverage. The ADS-B In applications available have been expanded with the GTX 345DR to include CAVS (CDTI Assisted Visual Separation) and ROA (Runway Occupancy Awareness). The GI 275 electronic standby provides a modern, sleek glass touchscreen display.

Caravan operators will be able to choose new optional features, such as the Garmin GWX 8000 weather radar, which adds Automode and Lightning and Hail Prediction. They will also have optional Taxiway Routing, which provides visual guidance for Caravan operators when maneuvering at the airport.

Previous optional features are being refreshed for Caravan operators as well. The Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) refresh includes enhanced terrain, airport signs and runway depictions. The SVT refresh also introduces multiple viewpoints for the first time and integrates with the new Taxiway Routing feature to display routing guidance. Additionally, Sirius XM Weather through the GDL 69A SXM has been enhanced to include new products.

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“The Denali’s clean-sheet and high-performance design is revolutionising the single engine turboprop market,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Flight Operations. “Beechcraft turboprops are renowned for their versatility and reliability, and I’m thrilled to unveil the newest member of the legendary product family to the world.”

Textron Aviation recently announced it is bringing the Garmin Emergency Autoland system to the Denali. This new feature is being incorporated into the aircraft’s development and flight test programme and will be available as a standard feature at time of entry into service.

Show attendees can view the Beechcraft Denali between Monday, July 24th to Sunday, July 30th, at the Textron Aviation EAA AirVenture, Booth #78.

Meanwhile, engineered to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots and full-fuel payload of 1,100lbs, the Beechcraft Denali is designed to have a range of 1,600 nautical miles at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers. It will be able to fly from Los Angeles to Chicago, New York to Miami or London to Athens.

The Catalyst engine – a more efficient, FADEC-equipped, 1,300 shaft horsepower (SHP)-rated turboprop engine – eases pilot workload with its single-lever power and propeller control. The Denali can also use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

The airplane is equipped with McCauley’s new 105in diameter composite, five-blade, constant speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection.

The cockpit features the Garmin G3000 intuitive avionics suite with high-resolution screens and touchscreen controllers. An integrated Garmin autothrottle interfaces with the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) and Flight Management System (FMS) to provide easy speed control throughout all regimes of flight from take-off to touchdown.

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The introduction of CoolView windows reflects Textron Aviation’s commitment to innovative solutions that enhance the flying experience for both passengers and pilots, it said . According to Lee Aerospace’s independent testing, the addition of a thin metallic inner layer, allows the windows to significantly reduce the amount of infrared light entering the cabin, ensuring a cooler and more comfortable environment during ramp operations.

“At Textron Aviation, we’re committed to incorporating the latest technology and customer feedback into our aircraft to deliver the best customer experience for owners, pilots and passengers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Flight Operations. “The inclusion of CoolView windows in the Beechcraft King Air turboprops is a testament to our commitment to passenger comfort and our responsiveness to their ideas.”

The CoolView windows also feature a frost pane with an integrated window tint. This design enhances visibility while reducing unwanted sunlight and glare, creating a pleasant and visually appealing cabin atmosphere for passengers and crew. The frost pane also helps reduce or eliminate unwanted ice build-up during long flights.

Combined with Textron Aviation’s standard Electric Air Conditioning System with Ground Cooling in the King Air 360, the CoolView windows will help provide customers with a cool and comfortable cabin environment, even in challenging ramp conditions.

The CoolView windows are also available as an aftermarket upgrade for Beechcraft King Air turboprops at Textron Aviation Service Centers or for purchase exclusively from Textron Aviation’s parts website.

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“The Citation Longitude’s performance, efficiency and unrivaled cabin experience make it the perfect aircraft for passengers and pilots alike and we are pleased to deliver this for our customers in Mexico,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales and Flight Operations. “We’re grateful for the owners and operators who continue to choose Citation business jets for their business and personal travel, and to the extraordinary Textron Aviation workforce that designs, builds and maintains our legendary line-up of aircraft.” 

The Citation Longitude incorporates the latest technologies throughout the aircraft like integrated autopilot, auto-throttles, and emergency descent mode (EDM). The aircraft is equally designed around the pilot experience, passenger comfort and overall performance, delivering an aircraft that lives up to its designation as the flagship of the Citation family of business jets.  Longitude owners and operators in Mexico can appreciate city pairs such as Monterrey, Mexico to Asuncion, Paraguay; Toluca, Mexico to Belem, Brazil; and with only one stop, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to Tokyo, Japan.

Recently, the company announced that the one hundredth production unit of the Longitude rolled out of the factory and is expected to deliver to customer later this year.

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Unveiled on the eve of this week’s EBACE 2023, the Citation Ascend features a new cockpit and improved performance. EBACE attendees will have access to a Citation Ascend mock up debuting during the show. Currently under development, the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2025.

“Of the Citation family, there’s none more flown than the Citation 560XL series. With an 560XL aircraft taking off or landing every two minutes somewhere in the world, this aircraft will be part of the most successful business jet family,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of our teams, we are proud to announce the latest innovation in the Citation family — the new Cessna Citation Ascend. We asked customers what they wanted in the next evolution of this iconic aircraft, and we believe the Citation Ascend will deliver.”

The Citation Ascend will have Garmin G5000 avionics, including autothrottle technology to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection, three 14-inch ultra high-resolution displays with split-screen capabilities and synthetic vision to render obstacles like mountains or terrain.

Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency to the predecessor, also give the Ascend increased thrust and longer time-on-wing. The aircraft has a four-passenger range of 1,900nm at high-speed cruise power (with an estimated maximum range of 2,100nm) it can cruise at 441kts and climb direct to 45,000 ft. It will also include an unattended Honeywell RE100 Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) with self-management and added bleed leak detection.

Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations, said: “The Cessna Citation Ascend builds upon more than 20 years of the 560XL series success in the market. It’s designed to outperform and take our customers further in style. Our talented team members at Textron Aviation have proven their ability to bring new industry leading products to the market time and time again. We look forward to exceeding our customers’ expectations again with the new Cessna Citation Ascend.”

EBACE attendees can preview the Citation Ascend interior mock-up at Textron Aviation booth T-26 during the show. 

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Textron said the delivery of the Gen2 aircraft “reinforces the Citation family as the world’s most popular line of business jets”.

Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations, Textron Aviation said: “This aircraft is a direct response to continued conversations with our customers. Their input, combined with the excellent work by our employees, helped create an incredible aircraft. Thank you to everyone who made this milestone possible.”

The aircraft first entered service in 2010, and the company said it continues to stand out due to high performance, low operating costs and cabin amenities. The Gen2 model was unveiled in February 2021, with new design features such as enhanced lighting, a lower point of entry and more passenger comfort, according to the OEM.

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• Textron Aviation achieves EASA certification for Cessna Citation XLS Gen2,
• First European delivery to Porsche Air Service
• Over 1,000 Cessna Citation 560XL deliveries in 25 years

Textron Aviation today announced at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, that it has earned European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification for the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 business jet. The company is set to make its first European delivery of the XLS Gen2 to Porsche Air Service GmbH of Salzburg, Austria, in the coming weeks.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2, a 560XL series aircraft, is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“Achieving this milestone delivery with Porsche Air Service – a company that embodies innovative engineering and design, high-end craftsmanship, a legendary heritage and a reputation for high-performance product investments – demonstrates how perfectly aligned the features, quality and performance of the XLS Gen2 are with the priorities of our customers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations for Textron Aviation. “This will pave the way for deliveries of the XLS Gen2 throughout Europe.”

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 will support Porsche Air Service for its charter services mission throughout Europe as the company continues its five-decade history with Citations. Its fleet includes a Cessna Citation XLS+ and now the new Citation XLS Gen2. This is the 22nd Citation aircraft flown by Porsche Air Service.

“The XLS Gen2 will provide our passengers with total comfort and a top-notch flight experience,” said Hubert Lindenthaler, CEO of Porsche Air Service GmbH. “With the addition of the XLS Gen2 to our fleet, we will continue to deliver exceptional aircraft charter services throughout Europe.”

With more than 1,000 Citation 560XLs delivered throughout the past 25 years, business owners, fractional owners and charter operators have consistently chosen the 560XL series more than any other aircraft in the light midsize category.

Textron Aviation first unveiled plans for the Citation XLS Gen2 during the October 2021 National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, representing Textron Aviation’s continuing commitment to enhance and redesign aircraft around customer needs. Shaped by extensive customer feedback, the upgrades focus on technology and design.

About the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2

Among the Citation XLS Gen2 updates are a new lighted airstair door to elevate the aircraft’s ramp presence, the addition of an entry curtain for inclement weather protection on the ground and improved cabin acoustics in flight, and improved natural lighting and elegant styling and materials throughout the interior. A new pedestal seat design enhances passenger comfort with individual controls, new styling and optional quilting, while the forward couch features an optional fold-down capability, which allows passengers to access more baggage in flight.

In addition to these modern design elements, the XLS Gen2 also features a state-of-the-art intuitive wireless cabin management system with a touchscreen moving map monitor, wireless charging, USB charging ports at each cabin seat and optional Bongiovi Immersive speaker-less sound system.

The Citation XLS Gen2 equips operators with speeds of up to 441 knots (817 kilometers/ hour) with a maximum range of 2,100 nautical miles (3,889 kilometers), a takeoff field length of 3,600  feet (1,097 meters) and climbs to 45,000 feet (13,716 meters) in 30 minutes. While maintaining key performance specifications, the XLS Gen2 also includes increased payload capabilities and meets Stage 5 maximum noise level requirements.

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