Raytheon Aircraft's new Premier I entry-level business jet is expected to achieve FAA certification in the fourth quarter of 2000. Customer deliveries will begin immediately following certification.

The Premier I certification programme is approximately 90 per cent complete based on completion of flight test conditions. Four aircraft are being used in the certification process.

"We are very pleased with the Raytheon Premier I, although the certification process has taken longer than we would have liked," said Hansel Tookes, Raytheon Company executive vice president and Raytheon Aircraft chairman and chief executive officer.

"This is a superb aircraft that has already met or exceeded its cruise speed, range and payload guarantees. Premier I owners will be delighted with their aircraft, and it will be an outstanding addition to the Raytheon Aircraft product line."

The $4.8 million Premier I offers a six-passenger mid-size cabin in an entry-level jet.

The company previously announced plans to accelerate the production line rate to 60 aircraft per year.