Cessna’s commitment to precision craftsmanship shines through in every facet of its jet production, and the Citation Encore+ exemplifies this dedication with a blend of versatility, long-range capabilities, short runway performance, and a remarkable payload capacity. This aircraft, true to its name, takes the exceptional and enhances it further. Since its introduction in 2006, this marvel of engineering has seen 60 deliveries (as of May 2009) and has been making waves ever since.

The Citation Encore+ stands as a testament to Cessna’s pursuit of perfection. This upgraded version presents enhancements across the board, spanning engines, avionics systems, cabin interiors, and performance specifications. Compared to its predecessor, the Encore+ boasts a 340-pound net payload increase, a higher maximum takeoff weight, extended wings, and improved aerodynamic capabilities. What sets it apart further is the innovative use of adhesive metal bonding in lieu of vulnerable and costly-to-replace mechanical fasteners.

The Encore+ derives its robust power from two pylon-mounted PW535B engines, each delivering a formidable 3,400 pounds of thrust. These engines incorporate a FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system, substantially reducing pilot workload. The major inspection interval is an impressive 5,000 hours.

Climbing into the cockpit reveals a Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 system, a worthy successor to the Encore’s Honeywell Primus 100. This upgraded avionics suite features a single-channel autopilot with a dual-channel flight guidance system, a 3D navigation Flight Management System (FMS-3000), and Communication Navigation Surveillance (CNS) radios. The cockpit’s instrumentation boasts three 8×10 matrix LCD screens, complemented by a Garmin GPS 500 display, delivering vital information to the crew. This suite is not only cutting-edge but also lightweight, enhancing the aircraft’s payload capacity to an impressive 1,170 pounds with full fuel tanks. Optional amenities include an HF radio with SECAL, an ADF receiver, a second 12-channel GPS receiver, and a Doppler turbulence detection weather radar.

The Encore+ has undergone significant design refinements. Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloys bonded with adhesive metal, the aircraft gains durability and reliability. The addition of a trailing-link to the main landing gear improves braking performance, ensuring safer landings. Furthermore, an increased wing length of 20 inches enhances high-altitude flying and climb capabilities. The incorporation of heaters into the fuel system eliminates the need for anti-icing additives, streamlining operations.

As a result of the Encore+’s comprehensive enhancements over its predecessor, it outperforms most competitors across the board. It boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 16,830 pounds, a remarkable maximum payload of 2,310 pounds, and a certified flight ceiling reaching 45,000 feet. The aircraft’s high-speed cruise clocks in at an impressive 426 knots.

Step inside, and the Encore+ unveils its luxurious and spacious cabin, measuring 17.3 feet in length, with a height and width of 4.8 feet each. After extensive upgrades, it comfortably accommodates five passengers, with room for a total of eight. Abundant natural light floods through seven large windows on each side (11×15), enhancing the in-flight experience. The Encore+ ensures ample storage space both internally and externally, with provisions in the forward closet, opposite the aft lavatory, within the tail cone, and a ski tube in the aft baggage compartment. In total, the aircraft offers a generous 71 cubic feet of baggage space.

In summary, the Encore+ surpasses the dreams of a private jet enthusiast. Every aspect of the Encore has been refined, resulting in an aircraft capable of carrying heavier loads across longer distances while ensuring passenger comfort and pilot satisfaction. The Encore+ embodies versatility, economy, luxury, and high-performance, making a striking statement both in the skies and on the runway.