Echoing a prediction on the economy first heard from Cessna Aircraft Chairman, President, and CEO Jack Pelton in July, Hawker Beechcraft Chairman and CEO Bill Boisture says he will hold the entry into service of the Premier II by more than two years until the economy improves in 2012 or 2013. Pelton chose a similar time in predicting recovery from the current economic recession.
“The Premier II program continues to progress, with HBC remaining focused on making its commitment for first prototype flight to take place in December 2009. The company will continue to evaluate the best timing for the Premier II entry into service, but expects this to now occur in late 2012 or early 2013,” Boisture said in a company press release.
The engines for the Premier II were successfully tested on a modified Premier IA. The first fuselage for the Premier II is now on the assembly line. Boisture said the company remains committed to certifying and fielding the Premier II as designed, but must be prudent in evaluating the current and forecast global climate. The entry into service is now timed to occur as the economy improves, he said.
The single-pilot Premier II will have higher cruise speeds than its predecessor, the Premiere IA, and 20 percent longer range carrying four passengers and increased payload. Two Williams International FJ44-3AP engines power it.
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