Air Transport Service (ATS) which targets charter demand in its catchment area of central Europe, reports that its Beechjet 400A, configured for seven, is well suited to shorter journeys. Aniko Serfozo, office manager, says ATS is very satisfied with maintenance support and operating capability and satisfied with dispatch reliability and value. "As our company develops we will, of course, improve our fleet to be able to fulfill the enquiries and expectations of clients," Serfozo adds. ATS also has a Hawker 800.

Andrea Tombari of Aliparma Srl says that the most desirable upgrade for the Beechjet 400A is single point refuel for commercial operations. He is very satisfied with the maintenance support, dispatch reliability and value and satisfied with the operating capability. "The best aspects include the cabin size and comfort," he adds.

Allan Hellemann of JJO Invest ApS says there is good maintenance support and dispatch reliability is a satisfactory 99.3 per cent. "We are very satisfied with the operating capability. The cabin handles six-plus passengers on two hours trips, which is perfect for our European operations. We are also very satisfied with the 400A's value. It is a type that is overlooked in the EU but enjoys a good swept-wing speed and an operating cost less than a Citation 550. The best aspect is the cabin and the airline type cockpit."

On upgrades: "It looks like the Williams powered conversion could be a bargain." He concludes: "Owner and pilots are happy: we all think that it is a top of the line light jet."

Beechcraft Vertrieb und Service GmbH in Augsburg, Germany, says it has the largest Beechcraft spare part shop in Europe and points out it has full EASA and FAA approval. "We are quite flexible with working times when it comes to keeping ground time low, and we offer repair teams at the client's location if needed." "Standard parts for the Beechjet 400/Hawker 400XP are either in stock or available within a short time." But it warns: "Special parts are usually ordered on request and may take some time."