Goes To Virginia Company

The milestone 100th Beechcraft Premier I is now flying out of Virginia for a business partnership.

FDRS Air, Inc. of Norfolk (VA) took delivery of the milestone Premier in late April. Dwight Schaubach, managing partner, said the group was looking forward to experiencing the Premier I's category-leading capabilities. "It's been very exciting," said Schauback. "The Premier is so fast and so roomy. My partner told me he got goose pimples the first time he got on it. We really like this aircraft."

FDRS Air Chief Pilot Paul Garrison, who completed two weeks of Premier I training prior to delivery, said he was looking forward to just one element. "Speed. It's all about speed," he said. "We will have great block times for our typical missions."

Garrison also said his experience with Raytheon Aircraft was a major factor in the decision to purchase a Beechcraft Premier I. "All of our dealings -from the King Airs to the Premier - have been a very pleasant experience," he said. "I don't know how anyone can ask for a better relationship. I can't imagine dealing with any other company."

Beechcraft President Randy Groom said the 100th Premier I delivery marks the beginning of a long production run. "In terms of innovation and utility, the Beechcraft Premier I will rank with the King Air," he said. "When we launched the Premier I, we called it the 'Future of Business Aviation.' Owners today are agreeing with that assessment based on the aircraft's blend of speed, roominess and cockpit functionality. Premier I serial number RB-?? will be on display at the 2004 European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition. It is one of 13 Premier I's operating in Europe and in the U.K. The aircraft is now certified in 16 countries.

Other Beechcraft Premier I facts:

•  31 international Premier I's have been delivered
•  FlightSafety has type-certified more than 230 Premier I pilots
•  Flight hours flown exceed 23,000
•  RVSM group certification is complete

The aircraft has set three new speed records In addition, Premier I owners are giving the aircraft's customer support high marks. "We are getting outstanding reviews from our customers," said Groom. "They are telling us that the Premier is setting the industry standard in customer support. And the template for how we serve Premier I owners is being rolled out to our other Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft. We're serious when we say we want to be the industry-leading manufacturer in customer support." [E-I-C Note: Yes, the carrier shot above is a fun fake... but it's SO cool, we can't resist using it now and then...--Jim Campbell]

FMI: www.raytheon.com