Hawker Beechcraft Receives Order for 12 Hawker 800XPR Aircraft From XOJET

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawker Beechcraft Global Customer Support (GCS) today announced that leading private aviation company XOJET has placed an order for 12 Hawker 800XPR aircraft. The Hawker 800XPR upgrade is certified by both the Federal Aviation Administration and the European Aviation Safety Authority.

"XOJET's 40 percent growth in 2011 clearly demonstrates that their innovative business model has been well-received by the private aviation market," said Christi Tannahill, Hawker Beechcraft vice president, Global Customer Support. "Our innovative Hawker 800XPR program can deliver the transcontinental capability, proven reliability and exceptional passenger comfort that will help XOJET continue on their growth path. Their commitment is a testament to the proven significance and value proposition of the 800XPR program."

"The growth of our business demanded a third fleet type," said Blair LaCorte, XOJET's Chief Executive Officer. "We looked at the available options for aircraft that would match the unmet needs of our network, and the clear standout was the Hawker 800XPR. Working closely with the Hawker Beechcraft team, we were able to create a custom XOJET Hawker 800XPR that addresses our unique requirements."

The Hawker 800XPR program offers major airframe modifications such as the replacement of the existing TFE731-5BR engines with TFE731-50R as well as adding Genuine Hawker winglets. It also can include avionics upgrades, cabin interior refurbishment and custom paint schemes.

"This program is part of a developing strategic relationship between Hawker Beechcraft and XOJET," said Tannahill. "This initial contract includes custom modifications and upgrades to XOJET aircraft and represents a potential commitment of up to $50 million."

XOJET, a TPG portfolio company founded in 2006, has become one of the fastest-growing private aviation companies in history, serving more than 3,500 customers worldwide. Its unique business model combines private jet membership, flexible programs, and fixed-price charter with a singular focus on providing the highest level of customer service at every point of the client's experience. XOJET's commitment to safety leadership has earned the highest safety ratings in the industry, and XOJET is the only business aviation provider to rank either #1 or #2 in all twelve ARG/US Platinum safety rating categories. For more information, visit www.xojet.com.

Headquartered in Wichita, Kan., Hawker Beechcraft GCS is dedicated to improving the value of HBC aircraft by employing products and services to simplify aircraft ownership, reduce operating cost and increase resale value. GCS is comprised of five functional groups that include Support Plus (cost predictability/warranty programs), Hawker Beechcraft Parts & Distribution (genuine factory parts), Hawker Beechcraft Services (factory-owned service centers), Technical Support (Field Support Representatives, Hot Line specialists and Technical Publications) and Global Mission Support (government business and special mission maintenance / training support).

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is a world-leading manufacturer of business, special mission, light attack and trainer aircraft – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company's headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark.; Chester, England, U.K.; and Chihuahua, Mexico. The company leads the industry with a global network of more than 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. For more information, visit www.hawkerbeechcraft.com.

This release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including statements that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on management's assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results may differ significantly from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described or implied in the forward-looking statements are general business and economic conditions, production delays resulting from lack of regulatory certifications and other factors, competition in our existing and future markets, lack of market acceptance of our products and services, the substantial leverage and debt service resulting from our indebtedness, loss or retirement of key executives and other risks disclosed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

SOURCE Hawker Beechcraft Corporation