First Plane Delivered In 2001

Aero-News has learned Hawker Beechcraft Corporation recently delivered the 200th Beechcraft Premier in a special ceremony at the company’s delivery center in Wichita, KS. The customer, Hannay Reels, has owned and operated business aircraft since 1952. Hannay Reels previously owned a Beechcraft King Air F90 and a Citation CJ1 before acquiring their new Beechcraft Premier IA.

"We were so impressed with the Premier that we ordered one back in 2000, while it was still a 'paper' airplane," said Roger Hannay, president, Hannay Reels. "Our confidence in the airplane, its performance and large, comfortable cabin make owning the 200th aircraft built a very special occasion."

Hannay Reels is a manufacturer of durable metal reels for hose and cable for a variety of industries, including aviation fuel-truck hoses. The company will use its Beechcraft Premier IA to visit tradeshows, customers and suppliers, as well as bring current and prospective customers to the factory.

"The success of the Beechcraft Premier is all about speed and cabin comfort," said Brad Hatt, president, Commercial Sales. "Cruising at 450 knots with a spacious cabin, the Premier enables customers to travel in comfort quickly and efficiently. Delivering the 200th aircraft is a milestone we are particularly proud of and we anticipate building many more."

Hawker Beechcraft delivered its first Beechcraft Premier I in 2001, delivering 157 before certifying and beginning deliveries of the Beechcraft Premier IA in 2005.

The Beechcraft Premier IA features a high-strength composite, carbon fiber/epoxy/honeycomb fuselage, which the company says gives the aircraft a medium-jet sized cabin at light jet acquisition and operating costs. The powerplants are Williams International FJ44-2A engines that are built on themes of simplicity, low fuel consumption, and high-altitude thrust performance.

Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics includes IFIS with total system integration and instrument placement designed to make single-pilot operation easy, simple and safe... while also boasting a 450 knot cruise speed and large cabin.

FMI: www.hawkerbeechcraft.com