Garmin Gains FAA Certification for Autothrottles on Cessna M2 Gen2 and Debuts $1,299.99 Quatix 8 Pro
Garmin’s Autothrottle system gained FAA certification in October 2025 and recently entered service on Textron’s Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, the industry’s most-delivered light-entry jet. The company also unveiled the $1,299.99 quatix 8 Pro nautical smartwatch, featuring inReach satellite and LTE connectivity and enhanced boat mode, available January 16, 2026.
1. Garmin Autothrottle Integration Expands Business Aviation Footprint
In October 2025, Garmin’s Autothrottle system received FAA certification for integration into the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, the most delivered light-entry jet in its class. Leveraging Garmin’s proven G3000 avionics platform, the Autothrottle adds automated speed management and over-/under-speed protections that enhance safety and reduce pilot workload across all phases of flight. The Citation M2 Gen2, built by Textron Aviation, cruises at 404 knots, climbs to 41,000 feet in 24 minutes and seats up to eight occupants. By capturing this avionics retrofit in a jet segment that often flies over 300 hours annually, Garmin gains access to a serviceable fleet of hundreds of Citation M2 aircraft, positioning its Autothrottle technology for recurring software, support and hardware sales in the rapidly growing business-jet aftermarket.
2. quatix 8 Pro Launch Reinforces Garmin’s Marine Electronics Leadership
On January 16, 2026, Garmin will begin sales of the quatix 8 Pro nautical smartwatch, featuring built-in inReach® satellite and LTE connectivity for two-way messaging, voice calls and SOS signaling up to 50 miles offshore. Priced at $1,299.99 and offering up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, the device integrates enhanced boat mode for one-touch access to autopilot, trolling-motor control and vessel data alongside 24/7 health monitoring and over 100 sport profiles. With a bright 1.4" AMOLED display, titanium bezel, sapphire lens and remote command of Force® trolling motors, the quatix 8 Pro targets a core marine electronics market valued at over $4 billion annually. This launch marks Garmin’s 11th consecutive Manufacturer of the Year award from the National Marine Electronics Association, underscoring its dominant position in high-end marine wearables and connected-boat solutions.