Overview of the Hawker 600
The Hawker 600 is a British-built, light-twin-engine business jet that was produced from 1961 to 1979. It was designed by de Havilland Aircraft Company (later part of Hawker Siddeley) as a high-performance, fuel-efficient aircraft for corporate and private use.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: Length - 42 ft 6 in (13.0 m), Wingspan - 43 ft 11 in (13.4 m), Height - 12 ft 9 in (3.9 m)
- Weight: Empty weight - 7,800 lb (3,528 kg), Maximum takeoff weight - 14,000 lb (6,350 kg)
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce Viper F164 turbojets, each producing 1,695 lb (767 kg) of thrust
- Performance:
- Maximum speed - 475 mph (766 km/h)
- Range - 2,000 miles (3,220 km)
- Cruising altitude - 35,000 ft (10,668 m)
- Capacity: One crew member and four passengers
Design and Features
The Hawker 600 features a distinctive design with a swept-back wing and a high-mounted tailplane. Its aerodynamic shape provides excellent fuel efficiency, while the Rolls-Royce Viper engines deliver reliable performance.
History and Development
- First flight: November 26, 1959
- Certification: February 1963
- Entry into service: April 1964
- Significant upgrades: Upgraded engines and avionics in the late 1970s
Operational Use
- Airlines: Several charter airlines operated the Hawker 600, including British United Airways and Gulfstream International Airlines
- Missions: The aircraft was used for corporate transport, charter flights, and cargo operations
- Role in aviation history: The Hawker 600 set several records for speed and endurance during its production run
Interesting Facts
- The Hawker 600 was designed to be a high-performance, fuel-efficient aircraft with a range of over 2,000 miles
- In the 1960s and 1970s, the Hawker 600 was popular among celebrities and business leaders for its speed and style
- The aircraft has appeared in several films and TV shows, including "The Persuaders!" starring Roger Moore and Tony Curtis
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Hawker 600 unique?
The Hawker 600 is unique for its combination of high performance, fuel efficiency, and range, making it an attractive option for corporate and private pilots.
How much does the Hawker 600 cost?
The estimated cost range for a used Hawker 600 is between $500,000 to $2 million, depending on configuration and customization.
What is the range of the Hawker 600?
The Hawker 600 has a range of over 2,000 miles (3,220 km), making it suitable for transcontinental flights or long-range missions.
Which airlines operate the Hawker 600?
Several charter airlines have operated the Hawker 600, including British United Airways and Gulfstream International Airlines. The aircraft is also popular among private pilots and corporate operators.
Is the Hawker 600 still in production?
No, the Hawker 600 is no longer in production. However, many examples remain in service today, with some having been restored to their original condition or converted for new uses.