The Hawker 4000 jet represents one of aviation’s most ambitious projects. This super-midsize business jet offers impressive range and cabin space. But it also carries a complicated history that affects its market position today.
What Is the Hawker 4000 Aircraft?
The Hawker 4000 is a super-midsize business jet built by Hawker Beechcraft. Originally named the Hawker Horizon, it entered service in 2008. The aircraft stands out for its carbon composite construction. This makes it lighter than traditional aluminum jets.
Only 73 units were ever produced before manufacturing stopped in 2013. Despite low production numbers, the jet delivers solid performance for charter clients.
Hawker 4000 Specifications
Performance Numbers
The aircraft performs well across multiple metrics:
- Maximum Range: 3,445 nautical miles
- Cruise Speed: 470 knots (541 mph)
- Service Ceiling: 45,000 feet
- Takeoff Distance: 5,068 feet
- Landing Distance: 2,995 feet
- Maximum Speed: Mach 0.84
Engine Power
Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308A turbofan engines power the Hawker 4000. Each engine produces 6,900 pounds of thrust. This allows the jet to climb to 41,000 feet in just 19 minutes.
The engines deliver excellent fuel efficiency. They enable transcontinental flights without refueling stops.
Interior & Cabin Features
Cabin Dimensions
The Hawker 4000 cabin provides generous space:
- Height: 6 feet (stand-up cabin)
- Width: 6.5 feet
- Length: 25 feet
- Baggage Capacity: 115 cubic feet
The flat-floor design maximizes usable space. This creates a more comfortable environment than curved-floor competitors.
Seating Configuration
Most Hawker 4000s seat 8-10 passengers. The typical layout features a double-club configuration. This includes four seats facing each other with tables between them.
Some configurations include a three-seat divan in the rear. An enclosed lavatory provides privacy for passengers.
Cabin Amenities
The interior includes business-focused features:
- Fully adjustable executive seating
- Individual worktables at each seat
- Power outlets throughout
- MagnaStar 2000 air-to-ground phone
- Rockwell Collins Airshow cabin management system
- 14 windows for natural lighting
- Digital temperature controls
The carbon composite construction reduces cabin noise. Special isolators dampen vibrations further. This creates one of the quietest cabins in its class.
Advanced Avionics Suite
The cockpit features the Honeywell Primus Epic system. This was groundbreaking when introduced. Five 8×10-inch LCD displays show all flight information.
Key avionics include:
- Dual auto-throttles
- FADEC engine management
- Synthetic vision technology
- Integrated flight management system
- Advanced weather radar
- Terrain collision avoidance (TCAS II)
The Epic suite reduces pilot workload significantly. It enhances safety and situational awareness.
Hawker 4000 Charter Cost
Hourly Rates
Charter rates for the Hawker 4000 typically range from $5,500 to $7,000 per hour. Exact pricing depends on several factors:
- Aircraft location
- Flight distance
- Time of year
- Seasonal demand
- Airport fees
These rates make it competitive within the super-midsize category.
Operating Costs
For owners, annual operating costs run approximately $1.15 million for 200 flight hours. This breaks down to:
- Fixed costs: $575,000-$650,000
- Variable costs: $525,000-$625,000
- Cost per flight hour: $2,700-$3,000
Range Capabilities
The Hawker 4000 excels at transcontinental missions. With a 3,445 nautical mile range, it connects major city pairs nonstop:
- New York to London
- Los Angeles to Honolulu
- Paris to Dubai
- Chicago to West Coast cities
- Bangor, Maine to Paris
The range makes it ideal for business travelers needing flexibility. You avoid fuel stops that waste time.
Hawker 4000 vs Challenger 300
The Bombardier Challenger 300 is the Hawker 4000’s closest competitor. Here’s how they compare:
Similarities
Both jets share core capabilities:
- Range over 3,000 nautical miles
- Cruise speeds above 540 mph
- Service ceiling of 45,000 feet
- Super-midsize category
Key Differences
The Challenger 300 offers more cabin space. It adds 6 inches in width, 8 inches in height, and 3 feet in length. This translates to 9-passenger configurations versus 8 for the Hawker.
However, the Hawker 4000 includes standard features that cost extra on the Challenger:
- Dual inertial reference units
- Auto-throttles
- Advanced avionics displays
The Hawker also achieves higher cruise speeds at Mach 0.83 versus Mach 0.80.
Hawker 4000 Photo Gallery
Why Hawker 4000s Are Affordable
When new, the Hawker 4000 sold for $23 million. Today, pre-owned models sell for $2-4 million. This dramatic depreciation has specific causes.
Development Delays
The aircraft was announced in 1996. First deliveries didn’t happen until 2008. This 14-year delay allowed competitors to capture market share.
Bombardier and Gulfstream filled the super-midsize segment. By the time the Hawker 4000 arrived, buyers had other options.
Early Technical Issues
Initial models experienced mechanical problems. These included:
- Power distribution failures
- Landing gear issues
- Display screen malfunctions
- Heated windshield problems
Hawker Beechcraft released fixes in 2010. But the damage to reputation was already done.
Limited Production
Only 73 aircraft were built before Hawker Beechcraft filed bankruptcy in 2012. This small fleet creates support concerns for some buyers.
Textron Aviation now provides parts and service. But the limited production reduces resale value.
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Who Should Charter a Hawker 4000?
The Hawker 4000 works well for specific travel needs:
Business Executives
The quiet cabin and flat floor create an ideal mobile office. You can work productively during transcontinental flights. The stand-up headroom allows easy movement.
Small Groups
With seating for 8-10, it handles small corporate teams perfectly. Everyone travels together without splitting up.
Cost-Conscious Travelers
Lower charter rates make it attractive for budget-minded clients. You get super-midsize capabilities at competitive prices.
Short Runway Access
The 5,068-foot takeoff requirement works at smaller airports. This opens up more destination options than larger jets.
Booking Your Hawker 4000 Charter
When chartering a Hawker 4000, consider these factors:
Route Planning
Verify the jet can complete your mission nonstop. With 3,445 nautical miles of range, most transcontinental routes work. But always confirm with your charter broker.
Passenger Count
The aircraft comfortably seats 8 passengers. Some configurations allow up to 10. Discuss your group size when booking.
Baggage Requirements
The 115 cubic feet of storage handles significant luggage. The in-flight accessible compartment adds convenience. You can retrieve items during the flight.
Airport Requirements
Confirm runway lengths at departure and arrival airports. The jet needs 5,068 feet for takeoff and 2,995 feet for landing.
Maintenance & Support
Textron Aviation provides ongoing support for the Hawker 4000 fleet. They offer parts, service, and engineering assistance.
Pre-buy inspections are critical when purchasing. The aircraft’s history of early technical issues makes thorough inspection essential.
Most operators report positive experiences after 2010 fixes were implemented. The carbon composite airframe requires specialized maintenance knowledge.
Market Value & Acquisition
Current market prices range from $3.3 million to $4.5 million. Factors affecting value include:
- Year of manufacture
- Total flight hours
- Maintenance history
- Avionics upgrades
- Interior condition
The low acquisition cost attracts some buyers. But factor in maintenance and parts availability when deciding.
Final Thoughts
The Hawker 4000 jet offers compelling performance at attractive charter rates. Its spacious cabin, advanced avionics, and transcontinental range serve business travelers well.
The aircraft’s troubled development history created market challenges. But for charter clients, this means access to a capable jet at competitive prices.
Whether flying coast-to-coast or crossing the Atlantic, the Hawker 4000 delivers reliable performance. Its carbon composite construction, quiet cabin, and modern technology create a premium travel experience.
For charter inquiries or to book your next flight, contact a qualified charter broker. They can verify availability and provide accurate pricing for your specific route. For more information, visit Crew Daily.
