About the RAYTHEON AIRCRAFT COMPANY HAWKER 800XP
The Raytheon Aircraft Company Hawker 800XP is a quintessential example of a mid-sized business jet that perfectly balances performance, comfort, and operational efficiency. The Hawker 800XP's story begins with its lineage tracing back to the venerable BAe 125, which was initially developed by British Aerospace. The aircraft design saw several iterations and ownership changes before Raytheon acquired it and improved it into the Hawker 800 series. The 'XP' in its designation stands for Extended Performance, reflecting significant enhancements over its predecessors.
Introduced in 1995, the Hawker 800XP was aimed at businesses desiring a reliable, high-performance jet for domestic and international travel. Raytheon focused on increasing the aircraft's range, improving its aerodynamics, and incorporating advanced avionics that were more reliable and user-friendly. These upgrades made the Hawker 800XP one of the most robust and versatile jets in its class.
Key Features and Capabilities
The aircraft is typically configured to seat eight passengers comfortably in a spacious and well-appointed cabin that allows for productive in-flight work or relaxation. It can also accommodate up to 15 passengers in high-density seating configurations, making it a flexible option for various private and corporate travel needs. The Hawker 800XP boasts a maximum range of approximately 2,540 nautical miles and a cruising speed of 447 knots, making it suitable for transcontinental trips.
Operational benefits include its ability to operate from shorter runways and its outstanding fuel efficiency, which provides cost advantages over other aircraft in its class. Its sturdy construction also ensures a smooth ride even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The combination of these attributes made the Hawker 800XP especially popular among corporate flight departments, charter operators, and wealthy individuals seeking a dependable business jet.
Market Position and Use Cases
Overall, the Hawker 800XP represents a blend of British engineering excellence and American innovation, ensuring it remains a favored choice in the realm of general aviation business jets. Its enduring legacy can be seen in the continued use and admiration it enjoys within the aviation community.