By Wing Commander 
The Hawker 400XP is a prominent figure in the world of light business jets, renowned for its combination of speed, comfort, and efficiency. Manufactured by Hawker Beechcraft from 2003 to 2009, this aircraft has carved out a significant niche in the aviation market, appealing to both private owners and charter services. The 400XP is an upgraded version of the Beechjet 400A, incorporating several enhancements that improve its performance and passenger experience.
Historical Background
The lineage of the Hawker 400XP can be traced back to the Mitsubishi MU-300 Diamond series, which first took to the skies in 1978. This series was later acquired by Beechcraft Corporation, leading to the development of the Beechjet 400. In the early 1990s, Raytheon acquired Beechcraft and subsequently launched the Hawker 400A. The introduction of the Hawker 400XP in 2003 marked a significant evolution in this line, offering improved range, avionics, and cabin features[1][2].
Design and Development
The Hawker 400XP was designed to offer a superior flying experience with its spacious cabin and efficient performance. It features a distinctive square-oval cabin design that maximizes interior space while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5R turbofan engines, each providing a thrust of 2,965 pounds-force. This power allows the jet to achieve a maximum cruise speed of 450 knots (833 km/h) and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet[3][4].
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hawker Beechcraft
- Country: United States
- Production Years: 2003–2009
- ICAO Code: BE40
- Price: Approximately $7.2 million when new
- Engine: Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5R turbofans
- Max Cruise Speed: 450 knots (833 km/h)
- Range: 1,565 nautical miles (2,898 kilometers)
- Service Ceiling: 45,000 feet
- Rate of Climb: 4,020 feet per minute (20.42 meters per second)
- Takeoff Distance: 4,698 feet (1,432 meters)
- Landing Distance: 3,012 feet (918 meters)[5].
Cabin and Comfort
One of the standout features of the Hawker 400XP is its cabin design. With a height of 1.47 meters (4.82 feet) and a width of 1.5 meters (4.92 feet), it offers ample space for passengers to move comfortably during flights. The cabin length is approximately 4.78 meters (15.68 feet), accommodating up to eight passengers in an economy seating configuration[1][3]. The interior can be customized with various seating arrangements and entertainment options such as the Honeywell Ovation C series cabin entertainment system.
Performance and Efficiency
The Hawker 400XP is celebrated for its performance capabilities that make it ideal for short to mid-range flights. Its fuel economy stands at approximately 2.14 nautical miles per gallon (1.047 kilometers per liter), making it a cost-effective choice for operators[2]. The aircraft’s design includes advanced avionics such as the Collins Pro Line 4 system and Honeywell Mark V TAWS, ensuring safety and reliability during operations.
Market Presence
Despite production ceasing in 2009, the Hawker 400XP remains a popular choice in the pre-owned market due to its robust design and competitive operating costs[5]. It continues to be favored by charter companies for its versatility and passenger comfort on short-haul routes.
The Hawker 400XP exemplifies a successful blend of performance, comfort, and efficiency in the light jet category. Its enduring popularity underscores its value as a reliable workhorse in private aviation.
Citations:
[1] https://jetsplore.com/en/fleet/hawker-400xp/
[2] https://www.aircharterservice.com/aircraft-guide/private/hawkerbeechcraftcorp-usa/hawkerbeechcraft400xpxpr
[3] https://privatejetcardcomparisons.com/aircraft/beechcraft/hawker-400xp/
[4] https://media.txtav.com/194782-beechcraft-inducts-three-aircraft-into-hawker-400xpr-upgrade-program
[5] https://www.globalair.com/aircraft-for-sale/specifications?specid=643
Performance and Technical Specifications of the Hawker 400XP
The Hawker 400XP stands out in the light jet category due to its impressive performance metrics and advanced technical specifications. This section delves into the details of what makes this aircraft a preferred choice for many operators and private owners.
Engine and Powerplant
At the heart of the Hawker 400XP’s performance are its two Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5R turbofan engines. These engines are known for their reliability and efficiency, providing a combined thrust of 5,930 pounds-force. This power enables the aircraft to reach a maximum cruise speed of 450 knots (833 km/h), making it one of the faster jets in its class.
Avionics Suite
The avionics suite in the Hawker 400XP is designed to enhance pilot situational awareness and ensure safety. It includes:
- Collins Pro Line 4: A sophisticated avionics system that provides comprehensive flight management capabilities.
- Collins DBU-5000 Data Base Unit: Facilitates easy updates to navigation databases.
- Honeywell Mark V TAWS: A terrain awareness and warning system that enhances safety by providing alerts about potential terrain conflicts.
These systems work in tandem to provide pilots with real-time data, ensuring smooth and safe operations even in challenging conditions.
Flight Performance
The Hawker 400XP’s performance metrics are tailored for efficiency and agility:
- Max Cruise Speed: 450 knots (833 km/h)
- Approach Speed (Vref): 119 knots
- Travel Range: 1,565 nautical miles (2,898 kilometers)
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 2.14 nautical miles per gallon (1.047 kilometers per liter)
- Service Ceiling: 45,000 feet
- Rate of Climb: 4,020 feet per minute (20.42 meters per second)
These specifications make the Hawker 400XP ideal for short to medium-haul flights, offering operators flexibility in route planning while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Operational Efficiency
The aircraft’s operational efficiency is further highlighted by its takeoff and landing capabilities:
- Takeoff Distance: 4,698 feet (1,432 meters)
- Landing Distance: 3,012 feet (918 meters)
These figures demonstrate the aircraft’s ability to operate from shorter runways, increasing its versatility in accessing airports with limited infrastructure.
Weight and Capacity
Understanding the weight specifications is crucial for operators to maximize payload while ensuring safety:
- Max Takeoff Weight: 16,299 pounds (7,393 kilograms)
- Max Landing Weight: 15,699 pounds (7,121 kilograms)
- Max Payload: 2,015 pounds (914 kilograms)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 733 gallons (2,775 liters)
These capacities allow operators to balance fuel load with passenger and cargo requirements effectively.
Cabin Dimensions and Comfort
The cabin dimensions of the Hawker 400XP are designed to provide a comfortable environment for passengers:
- Cabin Height: 4.82 feet (1.47 meters)
- Cabin Width: 4.92 feet (1.5 meters)
- Cabin Length: 15.68 feet (4.78 meters)
The spacious cabin can accommodate up to eight passengers comfortably, making it suitable for business travel or leisure trips.
In summary, the Hawker 400XP combines powerful engines, advanced avionics, and efficient operational capabilities to deliver a superior flying experience. Its design allows it to perform efficiently across various missions while maintaining high standards of passenger comfort.
Market Position and Upgrades of the Hawker 400XP
The Hawker 400XP has maintained a strong presence in the aviation market, even after production ceased in 2009. Its blend of performance, comfort, and cost-effectiveness makes it a popular choice among business jet operators and private owners. This section explores the aircraft’s market position and the available upgrades that continue to enhance its appeal.
Market Presence
Despite the end of its production run, the Hawker 400XP remains a sought-after model in the pre-owned aircraft market. Its reputation for reliability and efficiency makes it a preferred option for charter services and private owners looking for a light jet capable of handling diverse missions. The aircraft’s ability to operate from shorter runways adds to its versatility, allowing access to more airports compared to larger jets.
The competitive pricing of pre-owned Hawker 400XPs further bolsters their attractiveness. With an original price tag of approximately $7.2 million, these jets offer significant value, especially when considering their performance capabilities and cabin comfort. As a result, they continue to hold their value well in the secondary market.
Upgrade Packages
In response to evolving technology and customer demands, Textron Aviation, which acquired Hawker Beechcraft, offers an upgrade package for existing Hawker 400XP aircraft. This package is designed to modernize older jets with contemporary features, ensuring they remain competitive with newer models. Key aspects of the upgrade include:
- Avionics Enhancements: Upgrading to more advanced avionics systems improves navigation accuracy and pilot situational awareness.
- Engine Modifications: Engine upgrades can enhance fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs.
- Interior Refurbishments: Updating cabin interiors with modern materials and entertainment systems enhances passenger comfort and experience.
- Aerodynamic Improvements: Modifications such as winglets can improve fuel efficiency and range.
The cost of this comprehensive upgrade package is approximately $2.9 million, which is a worthwhile investment for operators looking to extend the lifespan and capabilities of their aircraft.
Competitive Landscape
The Hawker 400XP competes with other light jets such as the Cessna Citation CJ3 and Embraer Phenom 300. Each of these aircraft offers unique advantages:
| Feature | Hawker 400XP | Cessna Citation CJ3 | Embraer Phenom 300 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | 450 knots | 416 knots | 453 knots |
| Range | 1,565 nautical miles | 2,040 nautical miles | 2,010 nautical miles |
| Cabin Height | 4.82 feet | 4.75 feet | 4.92 feet |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 9 | Up to 10 |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 feet | 45,000 feet | 45,000 feet |
While the Hawker 400XP may not lead in every category, its combination of speed, cabin comfort, and operational efficiency makes it a formidable competitor in the light jet segment.
Future Prospects
The future prospects for the Hawker 400XP remain positive due to its established reputation and the availability of upgrade options that keep it relevant in today’s market. As technology advances, further enhancements could be developed to maintain its competitiveness against newer models.
The Hawker 400XP continues to be a valuable asset in the aviation industry due to its robust performance characteristics and adaptability through upgrades. Its enduring popularity underscores its role as a reliable choice for business aviation needs.
Future Outlook for the Hawker 400XP
The Hawker 400XP has established itself as a staple in the light jet category, offering a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. This final section will summarize the key attributes that have contributed to its success and explore its future in the ever-evolving aviation landscape.
Summary of Key Attributes
The Hawker 400XP’s enduring appeal can be attributed to several core features:
- Performance: With a maximum cruise speed of 450 knots and a range of 1,565 nautical miles, the 400XP is well-suited for a variety of short to medium-haul missions. Its efficient fuel economy and ability to operate from shorter runways enhance its operational flexibility.
- Comfort: The aircraft’s cabin design offers ample space and comfort for up to eight passengers, making it an attractive option for both business and leisure travel. The availability of modern upgrades ensures that the cabin experience remains competitive with newer models.
- Reliability: Powered by Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5R engines and equipped with advanced avionics systems, the Hawker 400XP delivers reliable performance and safety, which are critical factors for operators.
- Market Value: Despite production ending in 2009, the Hawker 400XP holds its value well in the pre-owned market. Its competitive pricing compared to newer jets makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking quality and performance.
Challenges and Considerations
While the Hawker 400XP boasts many strengths, it faces challenges typical of older aircraft models:
- Technological Advancements: As avionics and engine technologies continue to evolve, newer models may offer superior performance and efficiency. Operators must weigh the benefits of upgrading existing aircraft against acquiring new ones.
- Environmental Regulations: Increasingly stringent environmental regulations may necessitate further modifications to meet emissions standards, potentially impacting operating costs.
Future Prospects
The future outlook for the Hawker 400XP is promising, especially with ongoing support from Textron Aviation through upgrade packages that keep the aircraft competitive. As long as there is demand for reliable, cost-effective light jets, the Hawker 400XP will remain a viable option in the market.
Potential developments could include:
- Further Upgrades: Continued enhancements in avionics, engine efficiency, and cabin amenities could extend the operational life of existing fleets.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Innovations aimed at reducing environmental impact could make older models like the 400XP more attractive in a market increasingly focused on sustainability.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Hawker 400XP remains a significant player in the light jet segment due to its robust design and adaptability through upgrades. Its combination of speed, comfort, and efficiency ensures that it will continue to serve operators well into the future.