UK operator SaxonAir has added a third Hawker 900XP to its fleet. Based in Farnborough, it is the fourth midsize Hawker that the company will have available for charter.

Charter sales manager Jack Hellewell explains that there are not many Hawkers available out of Farnborough, despite reasonable demand: “This aircraft increases our capacity to meet requests, and will also enable us to offer more favourable pricing,” he says. “The Hawker sits at a nice price point in the midsize fleet. It offers good range and amenities, including the option for hot food and a flight attendant on board. Some other midsize and super light jets cannot achieve this. For example, we often get pitched on price directly against the Citation XLS, but we can go further and can include a complimentary flight attendant in the price, so passengers can enjoy a better experience.”

With five passengers on board, the Hawker 900XP can fly for up to five and a half hours. SaxonAir regularly serves the destinations of Nice and Palma, so is pleased that the latest addition has arrived just in time for the summer rush. “We will be able to run the aircraft much more efficiently and beneficially for both our business and the client,” continues Hellewell. “We are advancing our foothold around London and the wider UK market. As for the Hawker type, I think it is certainly experiencing a resurgence, and there are some great ones on the market available for purchase. They are always very good options for our clients because you get a lot of aircraft for your money in terms of cabin size and range.”

Purchasing decisions ultimately rest with owners, but the Hawker model is an area that the operator has demonstrated expertise in; it manages two and owns one.

The latest Hawker will also serve to expand SaxonAir's operational bases. It already manages operations from Norwich, Stansted and Luton, so Farnborough will be the fourth location within reach of London.

“At the moment many operators are having to ferry aircraft in from Biggin Hill or Luton, so having one permanently based at Farnborough will be advantageous to all those involved,” Hellewell concludes.