Largest Commercial Order In Raytheon's History

Raytheon Aircraft Company and NetJets Inc. have signed a contract for the purchase of 50 Hawker 4000 aircraft for NetJets’ global fractional fleet, as well as a separate 10-year guaranteed maintenance program. Raytheon tells Aero-News the contract is the single largest commercial order in its history, with a combined total value exceeding $1 billion.

"The Hawker 4000 will be the flagship of the Hawker line, truly setting the standard for quality, performance and value in the super-midsize class of aircraft,” said Jim Schuster, chairman and CEO of Raytheon Aircraft Company. "The NetJets name is synonymous with safety, quality and service, and... we are honored and delighted that they have chosen the Hawker 4000 as their super-midsize aircraft for the future."

The Hawker 4000 business jet (formerly known as the Horizon) features twin PW&C PW308A engines, delivering 6,900 pounds of thrust apiece -- allowing the jet to climb from sea level to 37,000 feet in just over 13 minutes, according to the company. Top speed for the 4000 is Mach .84.

Cabin noise levels are the quietest in the super-midsize segment. Tests show that the cabin is as quiet as a Falcon 2000, a much larger airplane recognized as having one of the quietest cabins for corporate jet airplanes.

This means the 4000 can carry six people in an extremely comfortable environment, which is a good thing as the jet can take them on a 3,000 nm trip at Mach .82 cruise.

"In addition to the innovative design and superior performance of the Hawker 4000, Raytheon Aircraft Company’s commitment to customer service and quality aircraft were key factors in our decision to purchase the aircraft," said NetJets chairman Richard Santulli. "We guarantee aircraft availability 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and we need a superb service organization to work with us. Raytheon Aircraft Company does that."

Constructed of advanced composite material, the Hawker 4000 fuselage is built in three sections, and features a 72-inch stand-up cabin with a 77.5-inch width. 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.

FMI: www.raytheon.com, www.netjets.com