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HAWKER 800 HAWKER 900XP

HAWKER 800 HAWKER 900XP are part of the Hawker series of mid-sized business jets, originally produced by Hawker Beechcraft, which is now part of Textron Aviation. These jets are known for their reliable performance, comfortable cabins, and advanced avionics. They have been popular choices for corporate travel, VIP transport, and charter services.

Hawker 800

The Hawker 800 is a mid-sized business jet that was introduced in the early 1980s. It was designed as a more affordable alternative to larger business jets, while still providing excellent range, comfort, and performance.

Key Features of the Hawker 800:

  • Design and Construction:
  • The Hawker 800 has a low-wing design with a twin-engine configuration. It was based on the Hawker Siddeley HS-125 design, which had been in production since the 1960s. The airframe was updated with modern avionics, engines, and a more spacious cabin.
  • The aircraft’s composite and metal construction offers a balance of strength and weight, contributing to its efficiency and overall performance.
  • Engine:
  • The Hawker 800 is powered by two Honeywell TFE731-5BR turbofan engines, each producing 4,500 pounds of thrust. These engines provide a good balance of fuel efficiency and speed, with the ability to fly at high altitudes for longer distances.
  • Performance:
  • Maximum Speed: The Hawker 800 has a maximum speed of around Mach 0.84 (approximately 530 mph or 850 km/h).
  • Cruising Speed: Its cruising speed is about Mach 0.75 (approximately 460 mph or 740 km/h).
  • Range: The aircraft has a range of about 2,500 nautical miles (4,630 km), allowing for long-distance flights between major cities or across continents without the need for refueling.
  • Service Ceiling: The aircraft can operate up to 41,000 feet (12,497 meters).
  • Cabin:
  • The cabin of the Hawker 800 is stand-up and offers ample room for 8 to 9 passengers in a club seating arrangement, with some configurations offering additional sleeping space.
  • The cabin is typically spacious and includes luxurious seating, a refreshment center, and modern amenities, making it ideal for both business and leisure flights.

Operational Use:

  • The Hawker 800 is often used for corporate travel by executives, government officials, and business owners due to its balance of comfort, range, and performance.
  • It has been popular for charter operators due to its size and ability to operate on shorter runways compared to larger business jets.

Hawker 900XP

The Hawker 900XP is an upgraded version of the Hawker 800 series, introduced in the early 2000s. It offers enhanced performance, increased range, and a more refined cabin, while maintaining the core characteristics of the Hawker 800.

Key Features of the Hawker 900XP:

  • Design and Construction:
  • The Hawker 900XP builds on the Hawker 800 airframe, with refinements that improve its aerodynamic performance, efficiency, and comfort.
  • The aircraft retains the low-wing design, twin-engine configuration, and tricycle landing gear that made the 800 series popular, but with improved fuel efficiency and maintenance systems.
  • Engine:
  • The 900XP is powered by two Honeywell TFE731-50R engines, each producing 5,000 pounds of thrust, providing greater efficiency, more power, and a higher climb rate compared to the original engines in the 800.
  • These engines contribute to a lower operating cost, making the 900XP more economically viable for long-term use.
  • Performance:
  • Maximum Speed: The 900XP has a maximum speed of Mach 0.84 (around 530 mph or 850 km/h), similar to the Hawker 800.
  • Cruising Speed: Its typical cruising speed is around Mach 0.75 (approximately 460 mph or 740 km/h).
  • Range: The 900XP has an increased range of 2,900 nautical miles (5,370 km), allowing for longer transcontinental flights.
  • Service Ceiling: It can reach a service ceiling of 41,000 feet (12,497 meters), maintaining its high-altitude capabilities.
  • Cabin:
  • The 900XP has a spacious, luxurious cabin designed for comfort, with seating for up to 8 to 9 passengers. The cabin is also more modernized, with advanced avionics and improved interior design.
  • It offers features such as larger windows, better insulation for soundproofing, and a fully equipped galley for long-duration flights.
  • The 900XP’s cabin is designed for business productivity and includes comfortable seating arrangements that can convert into workstations or sleeping spaces.

Operational Use:

  • The Hawker 900XP is commonly used for corporate flights, executive transport, and private travel. Its increased range and enhanced cabin amenities make it a popular choice for businesses and organizations that require quick, comfortable travel over long distances.
  • It is also used by charter companies and private owners looking for a versatile aircraft that combines performance with luxury.

Legacy and Popularity

Both the Hawker 800 and Hawker 900XP are highly regarded in the business jet market for their reliable performance, luxurious cabins, and versatility. The 800 series jets have been in service for decades, proving their durability and efficiency. The 900XP, in particular, is considered a more modern and refined version, providing improved performance and a more comfortable flying experience.

These aircraft have been used extensively by corporations, government agencies, and private owners. Their economical operating costs, combined with long-range capabilities, make them attractive options for organizations that need to move personnel quickly and comfortably.

Despite the rise of newer, more advanced jets like the Bombardier Global Express and Gulfstream G500, the Hawker 800 and Hawker 900XP remain strong contenders in the used business jet market due to their proven track record, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion:

The Hawker 800 and Hawker 900XP are both excellent examples of mid-sized business jets that balance performance, comfort, and operating efficiency. They are ideal for corporate travel and executive flights, offering a smooth flying experience and the ability to cover long distances in a timely manner. While the 900XP offers upgraded features and more range, both models are respected for their dependability, making them a valuable choice for those in need of a capable business jet.