US winglet systems provider Aviation Partners, Inc. (API) has announced that Oxford, UK-based Volare Aviation has completed its first installation of the Blended Winglets retrofit on a Hawker 800XPi, and has been appointed an authorised installation partner for Hawker 800 series Blended Winglet retrofits in Europe.

API's performance enhancing Blended Winglets for the Hawker 800 series purport to reduce drag by over seven per cent at long range cruise. This drag reduction increases range by 180 nm or more, allows the aircraft to cruise 15-18 kts faster, enables faster time-to-climb, can reduce or eliminate the need for step-climbs for many missions and improves second segment climb. In addition, with its Scimitar Tip design, the API Blended Winglet retrofit gives the Hawker a new look.

“Current resale prices for late-model 800XP and 800XPi aircraft have led to a renewed interest in the type, and we are certainly seeing that translate into an increase in winglet sales,” says API president Gary Dunn. “After a lengthy period without a European installer we chose Volare Aviation not only for its technical capability, but also its deep understanding of the Hawker market in the region. The first installation went very smoothly, and we are already working with Dustin Dryden and his team to complete two more installations in Q1.”

Volare Aviation provides a bespoke service for clients dependent upon their individual needs. The business operates services including aircraft sales, aircraft chartering, engineering training, aircraft management, maintenance and refurbishment. Due to its unique ability to deliver on a multitude of services, Volare is able to provide a complete, custom experience with seamless efficiency. During recent months when the COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented effect on a global scale, more individuals and organisations are seeking to fulfil their travel needs through private aviation.

Dustin Dryden, founder and chairman of Volare Aviation comments: “The capabilities of API in providing solutions that dramatically improve performance closely match the Volare Aviation ethos, offering unrivalled customisation of aircraft to meet our clients' needs. API's Blended Winglets offer both significant technical capabilities whilst also providing an opportunity for the modernisation and stylisation of aircraft that our clients own and seek improvements to. We are thrilled to be selected as a partner for the European market, so we can provide both our insights and expertise as demand for the Hawker series continues to grow.”