Czech-based TimeAir is optimistic about the potential of the Nextant 400XT, having recently displayed one of its models at Aero Friedrichshafen. The company is both a sales agent for and operator of the type, and has decided to use standard interior and exterior designs for its fleet.

TimeAir offers owners who place their aircraft on its AOC a written guarantee that the fixed operating costs will be covered by charter work. A third managed unit is set to join the fleet in June. Existing Beechjet owners can opt to have their aircraft converted by Nextant or buy an already updated, 're-imagined' model.

“Several people showed up just to see us at Friedrichshafen,” says md Martin Prazsky. “We believe that the flat floor, cabin volume, speed, range and operating economics are key sales points for the Nextant. The continuing supply of airframes is not an issue, with around 600 of the Beechjet manufactured to date.”

Prazsky has been won over by the remanufactured aircraft: “I was a bit sceptical at first but I now believe it is a better aircraft than the original. There is no hot section and maintenance requirements on the engine are low. It also benefits from a 300 per cent improvement in air exchange for air conditioning and a fully automatic pressurisation system, as well as improved avionics and a single power lever.”