FlightSafety Receives FAA Approval for Cessna Citation Ascend Simulator

New full-flight simulator will provide advanced training for Citation Ascend pilots and operators.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and simulation, has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for the world's first Citation Ascend Level D Full-Flight Simulator (FFS). The new simulator, located at FlightSafety's Tampa Learning Center, features high-fidelity cockpit replication and advanced visual processing capabilities to deliver ultra-realistic training for Citation Ascend pilots.

Why it matters

As business aviation continues to grow, FlightSafety is scaling its training programs and technology to ensure pilots have access to the advanced simulation and training required to operate safely and confidently worldwide. The Citation Ascend simulator represents FlightSafety's commitment to anticipating industry needs and providing comprehensive training solutions for evolving aircraft fleets.

The details

The Citation Ascend FFS reproduces the aircraft's cockpit with exceptional accuracy and is equipped with FlightSafety's VITAL 1150 image generator, Garmin G5000 avionics suite, Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engine modeling, 60-inch electric motion, and steep-approach capability. The new simulator builds on FlightSafety's long-standing partnership with Textron Aviation, expanding their global training portfolio to more than 70 simulators and 50 courses supporting pilots and maintenance technicians.

  • The Citation Ascend FFS received FAA approval in February 2026.
  • Citation Ascend pilot training is scheduled to begin in February 2026.
  • EASA certification for the simulator is planned for the third quarter of 2026.

The players

FlightSafety International Inc.

A global leader in aviation training and simulation technology, providing rigorous, real-world training programs to pilots, technicians, and other professionals from 170+ countries.

Textron Aviation

A leading manufacturer of business, commercial, and military aircraft, including the Citation Ascend model, with whom FlightSafety has a long-standing partnership to deliver comprehensive training solutions.

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What they’re saying

“The Citation Ascend simulator represents FSI's commitment to anticipating industry needs and scaling training capacity as fleets grow.”

— Ben Carter, Executive Vice President, Learning Center Operations, FlightSafety International

What’s next

EASA certification for the Citation Ascend FFS is planned for the third quarter of 2026, which will allow the simulator to be used for training in Europe.

The takeaway

FlightSafety's investment in the world's first Citation Ascend full-flight simulator demonstrates the company's dedication to providing advanced, high-fidelity training solutions that keep pace with the evolving needs of the business aviation industry.