First Hawker 800XPR Moves Forward in Development Program

Hawker Beechcraft Services (HBS) today announced that the first Hawker 800XPR upgrade continues to progress through key phases in its development program and is currently undergoing winglet installation at its facility in Chester, United Kingdom. HBS announced the first Hawker 800XPR upgrade customer – JoinJet of Denmark – during the National Business Aviation Association’s Annual (NBAA) Meeting & Convention earlier this year.

“We’ve made great progress this year in launching the Hawker 800XPR program and signing our first customer during NBAA,” said Christi Tannahill, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation, vice president, Global Customer Support. “This upgrade program is a sign of our commitment to continuously improving the value of Hawker Beechcraft products.”

The genuine Hawker composite winglets effectively increase the wing aspect ratio to reduce lift induced drag. Once the winglets are in place on the first 800XPR aircraft, it will be flown to the United States where Honeywell TFE-731-50R turbofan engines will be installed prior to flight-testing and certification of the upgrade. FAA certification is expected in early 2011 with EASA certification to follow.

The Hawker 800XPR offers significant improvements over the performance and capability of the 800XP, the industry’s best-selling midsize jet. Genuine Hawker winglets and more powerful, state- of-the-art Honeywell TFE-731-50R turbofan engines give the 800XPR greater range, better time to climb and faster cruise speeds. In addition, optional avionics, a newly stylized interior and XPR custom paint designs are available. The upgrade is available exclusively through HBS, the company’s factory-owned service center network.

Headquartered in Wichita, Kan., Hawker Beechcraft Global Customer Support (GCS) is dedicated to improving the value of HBC aircraft by employing products and services to simplify aircraft ownership, reduce operating cost and increase resale value. GCS is comprised of four functional groups that include Support Plus (cost predictability/warranty programs), Hawker Beechcraft Parts & Distribution (genuine factory parts), Hawker Beechcraft Services (factory-owned service centers) and Technical Support (Field Support Representatives, Hot Line specialists and Technical Publications).

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is a world-leading manufacturer of business, special mission and trainer aircraft – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark.; Chester, England, U.K.; and Chihuahua, Mexico. The company leads the industry with a global network of more than 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. For more information, visit < a href="www.hawkerbeechcraft.com">www.hawkerbeechcraft.com.