Hawker 850XP

The Hawker family has mastered the art of evolution. Designed with the latest improvements in technology, the Hawker 850XP climbs faster, goes farther, and performs better than its predecessor, the successful 800XP. It’s no wonder that the 850XP is the best-selling midsize business jet.

Certified in 2006, the 850XP’s greatest feature is its design, more specifically the addition of winglets. The slight modification improves overall performance by creating a more aerodynamic aircraft. The 850XP climbs to 39,000 feet two minutes less than its predecessor and can travel an additional 100 nautical miles. It completes cross-country trips such as Teterboro to San Francisco (2,225 nm). Less drag means that the aircraft is capable of traveling against headwinds at a high-speed cruise of 448 ktas, and requires less fuel. Surprisingly, winglets also increase the aircraft’s basic inspection interval from 300 to 600 hours.

Another feature of the 850XP that should not go unnoticed is its upgraded avionics system. The 850XP employs the Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite. Four 8×10 inch adaptive screens display navigation, terrain awareness warning systems (TAWS), weather, reduced vertical separation minimum (RVSM) and enhanced ground proximity warning systems (EGPWS). The system is set-up intuitively to decrease workload while increasing safety and awareness in the cockpit.

A main concern for business travelers is comfort and that is where the 850XP excels. Known for a spacious 604 cubic ft. cabin, the aircraft surpasses all others in its class. Features of the cabin include stand-up headroom, LCD lighting, touch-screen seat controls, fully-berthable seats and plenty of in-cabin storage. The cabin accommodates eight passengers.

Both its fuel and operational efficiencies make the 850XP a desirable aircraft for business jet owners. Traveling in the 850XP isn’t so bad either considering Hawker’s impeccable attention to comfort. Passengers enjoy the same accommodations as much larger (and more expensive) business aircraft.