Wed, Nov 18, 2009
U.K. Facility Completes Comprehensive Modification To Extend
Aircraft Life
Hawker Beechcraft Services
(HBS) said this week it has begun a project to enhance a
fleet of Hawker 700 aircraft that are actively operated by a
government agency. After 18 months of intensive design,
engineering, installation, flight test and certification effort at
the Chester, U.K.-based HBS facility, the recent completion of the
first in a fleet of six Hawker 125-700 aircraft marked what HBS
says is one of the most comprehensive Hawker 700 modifications in
the company's history.
"We are committed to finding solutions for upgrading older models
and supporting the operators of legacy Hawker Beechcraft aircraft,"
said Christi Tannahill, vice president, Hawker Beechcraft Global
Customer Service and Support. "This substantial modification is a
testament to that commitment and to the capabilities of our
talented service and support team."
Designed to improve safety and reduce carbon footprint, this
series of modifications features extensive upgrades to the
aircraft's engines and cockpit. Improved safety and airspace
utilization are attained through the aircraft's new Universal
Avionics digital flight instrumentation, while fuel savings and a
reduced carbon footprint are achieved with its Honeywell TFE731-3D
engine modification.
To upgrade the aircraft's cockpit, three Statement of Technical
Satisfaction (STS) certifications were awarded by the United
Kingdom's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The first CAA-STS
completely upgrades the Hawker 700's flight display instrumentation
with four Universal Avionics model EFI-890R high resolution
Advanced Flight Displays, dual Application Server Units, dual touch
screen Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) and an Electronic Engine
Indication System. The second CAA-STS significantly improves
hazardous weather detection through the installation of a Honeywell
Primus model 880 Weather Radar. The final CAA-STS enables
compliance with Eurocontrol, Precision Navigation (PRNAV) approval
through the installation of dual Universal Avionics UNS-1Fw Flight
Management Systems. These upgrades included a new, fully fabricated
instrument panel specifically designed for the new displays, new
side panels and a glare shield, as well as a re-engineered air
conditioning system.
File Photo
In addition to the major engine and avionics upgrades, cosmetic
and convenience improvements were incorporated in the cockpit and
cabin area, including new carpet, coordinating soft trim, EFB
stowage, cup holders and a number of galley modifications.
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