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Read this story in our October 2024 printed issue.
Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Part 135 operator and aircraft charter and management company RAI Jets has added a 2005 Beechcraft Premier I to its charter fleet. The light jet rounds out RAI Jets’ existing fleet which includes a turboprop, midsize and super-midsize jet.
“The addition of the Premier I to our fleet fulfils our mission to provide a full spectrum of aircraft to customers for their needs,” says director of operations David Riley. “The Premier I jet is classified as a light jet, but it offers many advantages of much larger aircraft.”
One of those advantages is a larger interior than other aircraft in its class. The cabin is five feet, five inches high and five feet, six inches wide, just two or three inches short of the average cabin size for midsize jets. The ample headroom and shoulder space create a comfortable environment for up to six passengers. The Beechcraft Premier I interior is also designed with aesthetics in mind, with ergonomic seating, generous storage space and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
The Premier I also boasts an impressive speed for its light jet status: two powerful Williams FJ44-2A engines give it a maximum cruise speed of 523mph.
Depending on flight conditions, the Beechcraft Premier I’s range is approximately 850nm, allowing for non-stop flights between major cities such as New York to Miami. The aircraft’s advanced aerodynamics and design also help with velocity. With a high strength composite fuselage that reduces weight and a swept wing design that contributes to aerodynamic performance, the Premier I gives passengers a smooth, comfortable ride.
The aircraft is also manoeuvrable enough to land at airports with shorter runways, making it a versatile choice for leisure trips to remote spots. In addition, the aircraft’s engineering makes it a fuel-efficient choice in its class as well.
“We envision the Premier I will become one of our most requested aircraft because of its speed, luxury interior, fuel efficiency and versatility,” says Riley. “We welcome it to the RAI Jets charter fleet.”
