Aero-News Network is reporting from the 8th Annual European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition where Hawker Beechcraft Corporation just launched their latest business jet, the Beechcraft Premier II light jet. The Premier II is the next step up from the Premier IA and is a twin turbofan, swept wing, light jet aircraft that will have a 20 percent longer range with four passengers and an increased payload. It offers a medium-jet sized cabin at light jet costs, holding up to six passengers and their luggage. The planes will use new FJ44-3AP turbofan engines from Williams International which offer more than 23 percent more thrust from the Premier IA. Combined with new elliptical winglets which offer reduced drag, the new engines let the business jets hit a maximum cruising altitude of 45,000 feet and fly farther. The first flight is scheduled for a year from now with FAA certification planned for the middle of 2010.
