The new Hawker Beechcraft

[400A]

Maybe, but if you need the extra seat, go with the Encore+. The Citations all are cheaper to operate and not only hold their value, but are typically worth more than you paid for them for years.

The only downside is Cessna can't build them fast enough, but that's why they hold their value. I think it's about 2.5 years to take delivery right now. Not sure what the lead time is on a King Air.

They are great airplanes but in my opinion the only citation that is comfortable with 8 pax is the Excel.

I am assuming by his load amount that he is carrying 8 or 9 pax. CJ3 only has six seats in the cabin. 350's double club is nice for high pax loads.

I am only 5'10 and my head hits the ceiling in the CJ even when side tracked. Not so in the King Air.

 

[NewmanF16]

Actually, the CJ-3 typically is optioned with 7 seats (side facing seat by entry door and smaller refreshment center) and has an admittedly uncomfortable belted potty. You can double club an Encore, though. The small cabin Citations are wider and taller than the King Air, although they have some more curvature due to the higher pressure differential. I certainly can't argue that a stand up cabin (XLS) is more comfortable.

The nice thing, of course, is you'll spend an hour less in the airplane on a 1000nm trip above most weather.

 

[400A]

No argument there. I did an SIC checkout in an Excel the other day and that was a hoot! Very easy airplane to fly. The Citations have always had that and reliability going for them.

 

[avratdwc]

Hey guys, thanks for the great insights. I would love to get the CJ3 but the problems is going to be pax load and even more so, lead time. I was quoted 24 months from deposit to delivery. This purchase is going to be for short term need. The company actaully has there eye on the Sovereign for long term planning. That airplane will cure all my little criteria. All indicators rite now are steering me twords the 350 (perfect island airplane) and there is the possability of alot of short hops (.5 to 1.0). I would rather put those types of cycles on a turboprop as opposed to the jet. I agree on the Encore, flew one for quite a while and I can say the Encore+ is going to be the nuts with the fadec and Collins. Im regards to the 350 does anyone have anything negative to say about them? Does anyone have any working insight with regards to the Support+ porgram for both parts and labor?

Thanks again for the great information. Keep it coming, actual insight is truly appreciated.

regard,

Avrat

 

[AeroBoy]

Avrat,

Baynan Air at Fort Lauderdale is also a HBC-authorized King Air maintenance facility, and they do warranty work. Their maintenance guys might be able to give you some insight into the KA350.