Beechcraft Beechjet 400A & Hawker 400XP

Beechcraft Aircraft

Founded in 1932 in Wichita, Kansas, Beech Aircraft Corporation was initially led by aviation pioneer Walter Beech until his death in 1950. His wife, Olive Ann Beech, then took the helm as President and Chairman, steering the company until 1982.

Beechcraft is renowned for producing iconic aircraft, including the Model 17 Staggerwing and the Bonanza. First flown in 1945, the Bonanza became Beechcraft’s most popular model, boasting the longest production run in aviation history, with three major variants: the Model 35 (V-tail), Model 33 (conventional tail), and Model 36 (extended version).

After facing financial hurdles, Beechcraft was acquired by Textron in 2014 for $1.4 billion. Today, it stands proudly among the “Big Three” in general aviation manufacturing, alongside Cessna and Piper Aircraft, continuing its legacy of excellence in the skies.

The Beechjet 400, also known as the Hawker 400, originated as the Mitsubishi MU-300 Diamond in 1978. After Mitsubishi sold production rights to Beechcraft in 1985, it became the Beechjet 400 and was certified by the FAA in 1986. Enhanced as the 400A in 1990, it featured extended range and an all-glass cockpit. Renamed the Hawker 400 after Raytheon acquired Hawker, it was later revitalized as the 400XT – showcasing its enduring legacy in corporate aviation.

Reflecting On The Creation Of The Beechjet 400A

The Beechjet 400A, introduced in the early 1990s, marked a turning point in light jet aviation by seamlessly blending innovative design with impressive performance. This aircraft was a notable upgrade from its predecessors – boasting powerful engines that deliver 2,900 pounds of thrust each and enabling remarkable climb rates and certification to operate at Flight Level 450 (FL450).

A standout feature, the Beech-Power program, allowed buyers to purchase the airframe while leasing the engines, making ownership more accessible and reducing upfront costs. Inside, the cabin is designed for comfort, accommodating up to eight passengers with enhanced soundproofing and a full-size lavatory.

Overall, the Beechjet 400A set a new benchmark in the light jet market, combining cutting-edge technology with practical design to meet the needs of both civilian and military aviation.

Country of Origin: America

Beechcraft Beechjet 400A & Hawker 400XP Statistics

The following include the estimated statistics of a Beechcraft Beechjet 400A.

Maximum Speed: 458 knots
Maximum Range: 1,318 nm
Maximum Occupants: 7-9
Range Of Years Manufactured: 1990-2003
Total Aircraft Build: Over 700
Operational Aircraft: About 600
Useful Load: 2,172 lbs
Average Sale Value: $1,400,000
Average Days On Market For Sale: 120 Days
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The following include the estimated statistics of a Beechcraft Hawker 400XP.

Maximum Speed: 450 knots
Maximum Range: 1,519 nm
Maximum Occupants: 10
Range Of Years Manufactured: 2004-2010
Total Aircraft Build: 604
Current Operational Aircraft: 232
Useful Load: 2,085 lbs
Average Sale Value: $2,000,000
Average Days On Market For Sale: 290
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Operational Resources

Operations Manual

Maintenance Document

Beechjet 400A/XP Maintenance Training Manual

Local Resources

Manufacturer

Beechcraft

Insurance

Beechcraft Beechjet 400 A/XP Details

Interior

The Beechjet 400A cabin accommodates up to 8 passengers with soundproofing and a full-size lavatory. Equipped with a Collins avionics suite, it features excellent flying qualities and efficient fuel use with cruise speeds of up to 440 knots.

The Beechjet/Hawker 400XP cabin offers seating for up to 9 passengers, typically configured with 8 seats. This aircraft features a private lavatory, refreshment facilities, and an optional Honeywell Ovation C series entertainment system. This offers a more convenient and enjoyable flying experience for business travelers.

Exterior

Beechjet 400A features an exterior adopted from the MU-300 Diamond, showcasing its twinjet design. With powerful Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5 engines, it is known for its reliability and strong airframe.

Beechjet/Hawker 400XP is a light business jet created from the Mitsubishi MU-300 Diamond. It seats up to 9 passengers and is powered by 2 Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5 turbofan engines.

Avionics

Beechcraft Beechjet 400 A/XP variants may or may not have the following avionics:

Collins 3 Tube EFD-870 EFIS
L-3 Communications CVR
Dual Collins 422D/432 COMMS/NAV
Dual Collins DME 422
Dual Collins FMC 5000 FMS
Collins APS 4000
Laseref IV Inertial Reference System (IRS)
Collins 4000 GPS
ARTEX with Triple Frequency & GPS
Collins TCAS 4000
Dual Collins TDR 94D
Collins WXR-850 Color Radar
Collins ADF 462
Honeywell MRK V EGPWS
Dual Collins SDU-640A RMI
Artex ELT 110-406

Beechcraft Beechjet 400A Specifications

Exterior Height: 13 ft. 11 in.
Wing Span: 43 ft. 6 in.
Length: 48 ft. 5 in.
External Baggage: 25 cu ft.
Max Takeoff Weight: 16,100 lbs.
Max Landing Weight: 15,700 lbs.
Empty Weight: 10,050 lbs.
Max Payload: 2,085 lbs.
Normal Range: 1,180 nm
Max Range: 1,519 nm
Balanced Field Length: 4,600 ft.
Landing Distance: 5,083 ft.
Rate of Climb: 3,770 fpm
Max Speed: 458 kts
Normal Cruise: 449 kts

Beechcraft Hawker 400XP Specifications

Exterior Height: 13 ft. 9 in.
Wing Span: 43 ft. 5 in.
Length: 48 ft. 4 in.
External Baggage: 25 cu ft.
Max Takeoff Weight: 16,300 lbs.
Max Landing Weight: 15,700 lbs.
Operating Weight: 10,985 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 4,912 lbs.
Payload with Full Fuel: 603 lbs.
Max Payload: 2,015 lbs.
Normal Range: 1,180 nm
Max Range: 1,519 nm
Service Ceiling: 45,000 ft.
Takeoff Distance: 3,906 ft.
Balanced Field Length: 4,600 ft.
Landing Distance: 5,025 ft.
Rate of Climb: 4,020 fpm
Max Speed: 450 kts
Normal Cruise: 450 kts

Beechcraft Beechjet 400 A/XP Models

Beechcraft Beechjet 400

The Hawker 400, originally the Mitsubishi MU-300 Diamond, is a twin-engine business jet developed in the mid-1970s. First flying in 1978 and FAA-certified in 1981, it was initially produced by Mitsubishi’s US subsidiary. Beech Aircraft Company later updated the design, marketing it as the Beechjet 400. This aircraft features computer-designed wings for reduced drag, 2 Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D turbofan engines, and accommodates up to 9 passengers.

Beechcraft Beechjet 400A

In 1985, Mitsubishi sold rights and unfinished airframes to Beechcraft, which began making the aircraft as the Beechjet 400, certified in May 1986. The 1990 400A had enhancements for longer range, higher weights, and luxury features. It has a twinjet design, reliable Pratt & Whitney engines, seats 8 passengers, and offers efficient cruising speeds of up to 440 knots.

Beechcraft Beechjet 400XP

In 1993, Raytheon acquired the Hawker business jets and renamed the Beechjet 400 as the Hawker 400. In 2003, they introduced the Hawker 400XP, which had a 200 lb. weight increase with seating for up to 9 passengers, thrust reversers, and an emergency locator beacon. The Hawker 450XP was announced in 2008 but was canceled in 2009. The 400XP costs $7.4 million and offers a cabin for up to 9 passengers including a private lavatory and entertainment options.

Top Beechcraft Beechjet 400 A/XP Questions

FAQs and answers about Beechcraft Beechjet 400A & Hawker 400XP aircraft models.

What Is The Typical Passenger Capacity Of The Beechjet 400A/400XP?

Beechjet 400A and 400XP models typically accommodate 6-7 passengers with a comfortable executive cabin configuration.

What Engines Power Does The Beechjet Hawker 400XP Have?

The Hawker 400XP is equipped with 2 Pratt and Whitney Canada JT15D-5 engines, each offering 2,965 pounds of thrust and using 214 gallons per hour (GPH).

What Makes The Beechjet 400A/400XP Popular Among Business & Private Aviation Owners?

As a light jet, the Hawker 400XP is recommended for short or mid-range missions. The Hawker 400XP features an innovative design and superior technology, making it one of the fastest light business jets on the market.