Raytheon Aircraft has rolled out its largest aircraft ever – the Hawker Horizon, a super mid-size business jet. The ceremonial roll-out, held at the company’s Hawker Horizon test flight facility, marks a programme milestone in the aircraft’s development, flight test and certification process. First flight is expected this summer and FAA certification is expected in 2003.

“We have designed an entirely new aircraft while retaining the Hawker’s classic look and feel,” said Hansel Tookes, Raytheon Aircraft chairman and ceo.

The Horizon features a carbon fibre composite fuselage and advanced avionics and propulsion systems. The composite fuselage, made in three pieces, allows the Horizon to offer more cabin room than a similarly sized metal aircraft. It has an 84-inch diameter fuselage, which translates into a 72-inch stand-up cabin with 77.5-inch width.

Raytheon will produce 36 Horizons per year. Domestic and international customers have secured more than 150 positions on the production line, including options, for the $16.9 million aircraft. Two major aircraft fractional ownership companies will fly the Horizon in their programmes. Executive Jet Inc., ordered 50 Horizons, valued at approximately $1 billion with support activities, to serve the company’s NetJets fractional ownership fleet. Executive Jet also placed options for 50 aircraft, which when exercised will make the programme worth $2 billion, including support work. Additionally, Raytheon’s own fractional ownership company, Raytheon Travel Air, has 27 Horizons on order.

Typically configured for eight passengers, the Horizon will offer an NBAA IFR range of 3,100nm at Mach .82 with six passengers. A maximum range of 3,400 nm with six passengers provides London to New York capability and additional performance flexibility, says Raytheon.