New Light Bizjet Sees Order Boom

The newly-unveiled, significantly-upgrade Beechcraft Premier II appears to be a winner for Hawker Beechcraft. The company tells ANN it has received over 70 commitments for the new aircraft -- including more than 40 firm orders -- since its unveiling earlier this week.

"The customer response has been fantastic. Those who have experienced a Premier know that they are flying or operating a true breakthrough aircraft," said Brad Hatt, Hawker Beechcraft president, Commercial Aircraft. "The Premier's unmistakable comfort, now combined with a phenomenal boost in performance, makes the Premier II an airplane pilots and companies can't wait to own and operate."

As ANN reported, HBC announced the launch of the Beechcraft Premier II Monday at the European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland. The new light business jet evolves from the Premier 1A and will feature higher cruise speeds, 20 percent longer range with four passengers, and increased payload.

Additionally, the higher thrust engines will increase maximum cruise speed to 465 knots at 33,000 feet and improve high/hot take-off operations.

First flight of the aircraft is scheduled for April 2009 with FAA Certification for Q2 2010. European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA) certification is planned for Q4 2010.

FMI: www.hawkerbeechcraft.com