Hawker 400XPR Engine Test Article Completes First Flight

WICHITA, Kan., May 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawker Beechcraft Global Customer Support (GCS) today announced the successful first flight of the Hawker 400XPR engine test article. This was the first flight of an upgraded aircraft with new Williams International FJ44-4A-32 engines.

The Hawker 400XPR upgrade combines the increased power of the Williams International FJ44-4A-32 engines with the superior aerodynamics of genuine Hawker Winglets. Also available are optional Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21™ avionics and a number of system enhancements that significantly improve performance, operating cost and resale value. The company anticipates certification in September 2012.

"The first flight of the Hawker 400XPR engine test article is a major milestone and significant achievement for our design and production teams," said Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, Hawker Beechcraft GCS. "Hawker Beechcraft and its partners spent countless hours and great effort to ensure the Hawker 400XPR exceeds the needs our customers require in their light-jet aircraft. We continue to see great demand for this upgrade in the market and look forward to certification and deliveries commencing later in the year."

Hawker Beechcraft offers customized XPR upgrade packages for existing Hawker/Beechjet 400 owners as well as XPR Factory Completed Aircraft for those who do not currently own an aircraft. Both the XPR upgrade and Factory Completed Aircraft include performance, cost and reliability enhancements that are available only through Hawker Beechcraft. Importantly, the enhancements are the exclusive factory-designed, engineered and supported upgrades available for the Hawker/Beechjet 400.

GCS is dedicated to improving the value of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft by employing products and services to simplify aircraft ownership, reduce operating cost and increase resale value. GCS is comprised of five functional groups that include Support Plus (cost predictability/warranty programs), Hawker Beechcraft Parts & Distribution (genuine factory parts), Hawker Beechcraft Services (factory-owned service centers), Technical Support (Field Support Representatives and Technical Publications) and Global Mission Support (government business and special mission support).

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is a world-leading manufacturer of business, special mission, light attack and trainer aircraft – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company's headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Little Rock, Ark.; Chester, England, U.K.; and Chihuahua, Mexico. The company leads the industry with a global network of more than 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. For more information, visit www.hawkerbeechcraft.com.

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SOURCE Hawker Beechcraft Corporation