Hawker 850

Introduction

The Hawker 850XP is a popular midsize business jet from the long-running Hawker series, designed to offer an ideal balance between comfort, range, and performance. Introduced as an upgrade to the well-known Hawker 800XP, the 850XP features improved aerodynamics, upgraded avionics, and winglets that enhance its range and efficiency. Known for its spacious cabin, coast-to-coast capability, and ability to operate from shorter runways, the Hawker 850XP remains a favorite among corporate travelers, charter operators, and private owners alike.

With seating for up to eight passengers and the ability to cruise at high altitudes with excellent fuel efficiency, the 850XP delivers a comfortable and productive in-flight experience, making it one of the most sought-after midsize jets in its category.

Specification of Hawker 850XP

• Manufacturer: Hawker Beechcraft (originally British Aerospace)

• Introduced: 2006

• Crew: 2 pilots

• Passenger Capacity: Typically 8 passengers

• Length: 51 ft 2 in (15.6 m)

• Wingspan: 54 ft 4 in (16.56 m) with winglets

• Height: 18 ft 1 in (5.51 m)

• Cabin Length: 21 ft 4 in (6.5 m)

• Cabin Width: 6 ft (1.83 m)

• Cabin Height: 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)

• Baggage Capacity: 48 cu ft (external + internal combined)

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 28,000 lbs (12,701 kg)

• Engines: 2 × Honeywell TFE731-5BR-1H turbofan engines

• Thrust: 4,660 lbs each

Performance and Range of Hawker 850XP

One of the most significant upgrades in the Hawker 850XP compared to its predecessor is the addition of blended winglets. These winglets improve lift-to-drag ratio, reduce fuel burn, and enhance climb performance, allowing the aircraft to reach its cruise altitude faster and operate more efficiently.

• Maximum Cruise Speed: 448 knots (Mach 0.80)

• Long-Range Cruise Speed: 430 knots (Mach 0.77)

• Maximum Range: Approximately 2,642 nautical miles (4,892 km) with 4 passengers and reserves

• Service Ceiling: 41,000 ft (12,497 m)

• Takeoff Distance: 5,032 ft (1,534 m)

• Landing Distance: 2,245 ft (684 m)

With these performance figures, the Hawker 850XP can easily handle nonstop routes such as New York to Los Angeles, London to Moscow, or Singapore to Tokyo, making it a versatile choice for both domestic and regional international travel.

Cabin Comfort and Interior of Hawker 850XP

The Hawker 850XP’s cabin is one of its strongest selling points. Its stand-up height of 5 ft 9 in and width of 6 ft provide ample room for passengers to move around, making it more spacious than many competitors in the midsize category.

• Typical Configuration:
  The cabin typically features a double club seating arrangement with swiveling and reclining leather seats. A three-seat divan is also available for increased seating flexibility.

• Amenities:
  Fully enclosed aft lavatory
  Refreshment center/galley for catering needs
  Fold-out work tables for productivity in flight
  High-quality soundproofing for a quiet cabin environment
  Optional Wi-Fi, in-flight entertainment system, and satellite phone connectivity

The cabin design focuses on productivity as much as relaxation, allowing passengers to work or unwind depending on their needs. Its flat floor design further enhances comfort compared to jets with dropped aisles.

Avionics and Technology of Hawker 850XP

The Hawker 850XP is equipped with the Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, providing pilots with modern navigation and situational awareness tools:

• Four large-format LCD displays

• Dual Flight Management Systems (FMS)

• Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS)

• Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II)

• Weather radar

• RVSM (Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum) compliance

These avionics not only improve operational safety but also streamline cockpit workflow, reducing pilot workload and enabling more efficient flight planning.

Operational Advantages of Hawker 850XP

The Hawker 850XP stands out in the midsize category for several operational benefits:

1. Short-Field Performance
   Despite being a midsize jet, the 850XP can operate from runways under 5,100 ft, giving it access to smaller airports closer to business hubs and remote destinations.

2. Balanced Range and Speed
   The aircraft offers a solid combination of transcontinental range and near-transonic cruise speeds, meaning passengers can reach their destinations quickly without compromising fuel efficiency.

3. Cabin Comfort Without Heavy Price Tag
   Its large cabin dimensions rival those of some super-midsize jets, yet operational costs remain competitive with midsize aircraft.

4. Improved Efficiency with Winglets
   The winglet design not only enhances performance but also improves fuel economy, reducing operating costs over the life of the aircraft.

Who Should Charter Hawker 850XP

The Hawker 850XP is ideal for:

• Business Executives requiring nonstop coast-to-coast capability with an onboard workspace.

• Small Corporate Teams traveling for meetings or events who need a comfortable, private cabin.

• Frequent Regional Flyers who want access to smaller airports without sacrificing range.

• Luxury Leisure Travelers who value spacious interiors for long-haul comfort.

Its versatility makes it equally appealing for both business and leisure missions.

Charter Cost Estimates for Hawker 850XP

Charter rates for the Hawker 850XP vary depending on region, season, and availability. On average:

• Hourly Rate: $4,000 – $5,500 USD

• Daily Minimum: 2 hours per day (varies by operator)

• Example Routes:
  New York – Miami: ~$15,000 – $18,000
  Los Angeles – Chicago: ~$20,000 – $23,000
  London – Athens: ~$17,000 – $20,000

These prices typically include standard catering, crew costs, and operational fees but exclude positioning charges, overnight crew expenses, and special requests.

Conclusion

The Hawker 850XP delivers a winning combination of range, speed, cabin comfort, and efficiency, making it one of the most capable midsize business jets in the market. Whether for corporate executives crossing the U.S. in a single hop or leisure travelers seeking a quiet, spacious ride for regional international trips, the 850XP ticks all the right boxes.

Its ability to operate from shorter runways, combined with modern avionics, a stand-up cabin, and winglet-enhanced efficiency, ensures it remains a highly competitive option in today’s charter market. For those seeking a private jet that blends performance with comfort at a reasonable operating cost, the Hawker 850XP stands as a smart and versatile choice.