Receives TC and First Customer Acceptance
The FAA has granted a provisional
type certificate for the Hawker Horizon to Raytheon Aircraft
Company, following over 1800 hours of developmental and
certification flight testing. This historic milestone was followed
by another major event -- the first customer acceptance of a Hawker
Horizon.
"This is a fantastic accomplishment by the Hawker Horizon team
and a great day for all Raytheon Aircraft employees," said Jim
Schuster, Chairman and CEO of Raytheon Aircraft Company. "The
Hawker Horizon is the newest, most technically advanced
super-midsize business aircraft available. It represents the ideal
combination of technology, performance, and comfort, offering the
cabin and range advantages of a large business jet, but at the
operating cost of a mid-sized jet. It is a fabulous addition to the
Hawker family."
Wichita businessman Jack DeBoer is the first Horizon customer. A
lifelong aviation enthusiast, DeBoer is an entrepreneur in
extended-stay hotel concepts and real estate development.
The newly certified Hawker Horizon is entering the marketplace
with the best overall performance in its class -- performance that
is even better than anticipated when the Horizon was initially
unveiled. It has a take-off field length performance of 4,900 feet
(gross weight, ISA/sea level conditions) and an extraordinary climb
performance, requiring only 13 minutes to climb from sea level to
FL370 (Flight Level 37,000 ft). Powered by two Pratt & Whitney
PW308A turbofan engines, the Horizon can fly six passengers and two
crew a distance of 3,100 nautical miles at high speed cruise (Mach
.82), and has a long range capability of 3,400 nautical miles.
"The Hawker Horizon has great ramp presence and with its
phenomenal performance and airliner-like reliability and
maintainability, this aircraft will quickly prove itself to be the
leader in the super mid-size category," said Brad Hatt, President
and General Manager of Hawker Business. "It will carry on the
Hawker tradition of rugged, reliable aircraft that are the
intelligent choice for corporations and individuals."
The Hawker Horizon fuselage is made with advanced composite
technology. Built in three sections, the fuselage features a
72-inch stand-up cabin and 77.5-inch width. "The fit, finish and
quality of the Horizon's customer-designed interior will set the
standard for the super mid-size jet segment," commented Hatt.
A flat floor runs the entire length of the aircraft, leading to
a large baggage area. The baggage compartment is accessible on the
ground through an exterior door or during flight through the cabin.
The aircraft will be delivered with a comprehensive customer
support package and will be served by Raytheon Aircraft Company's
global network of company-owned and independent service
centers.