Midsize Jet - Legacy Production
Hawker 800A: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
British Aerospace / Raytheon
Hawker 800A: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Hawker 800A is the U.S.-certified variant of the BAe 125-800 (Hawker 800) family, produced from 1983 to 1995 by British Aerospace and later Raytheon. The "A" designation distinguished aircraft built for the North American market with U.S. FAA certification basis. Mechanically identical to the Hawker 800B (non-U.S. variant) and broader Hawker 800 family, the 800A delivers the same proven performance: AlliedSignal TFE731-5R-1H engines producing 4,200 lbf each, glass cockpit (first corporate jet with EFIS), increased wingspan with wingtip devices, and approximately 2,500 nautical miles of range. Maximum cruise reaches 442 ktas at FL370, with long-range cruise at 389-401 ktas and a 41,000 ft service ceiling. The 800A is operated by two pilots, with cabin seating for up to 14 in high-density configurations (typically 8 in standard executive layouts). The Hawker 800A was the first of the broader 800 series that now includes the 800SP, 800XP, 800XPi, and 850XP. Pre-owned market today: $1.5 to $3.5 million.
For operators seeking U.S.-certified Hawker 800 family ownership with proven Honeywell TFE731-5R reliability at attainable pre-owned cost, the Hawker 800A represents the foundational variant with substantial fleet support.
Hawker 800A Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Midsize Jet - Legacy Production |
| Production Status | Discontinued 1995 (replaced by Hawker 800XP) |
| Designation | BAe 125-800A / Hawker 800A |
| Certification Basis | U.S. FAA (vs 800B's non-U.S. basis) |
| Manufacturers | British Aerospace (1983-1993), Raytheon (1993-1995) |
| First Flight | May 26, 1983 |
| Production Years | 1983 to 1995 |
| Predecessor | Hawker 700A |
| Successor | Hawker 800XP (1995-2006) |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Standard) | 8 (4-person club + 3-person divan + 1 forward-facing) |
| Passengers (Max) | Up to 14 (high-density) |
| Engines | 2× AlliedSignal (Honeywell) TFE731-5R-1H |
| Thrust per Engine | 4,200 lbf (8,400 lbf total) |
| Thrust vs 800XP | -400 lbf per engine (XP has 4,500 lbf) |
| Avionics | Honeywell SPZ-8000 5-display EFIS |
| Max Range (NBAA IFR) | 2,500 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed (At FL370) | 442 ktas |
| Long-Range Cruise (FL410) | 389 to 401 ktas |
| High Speed Fuel Burn | 250 gph |
| Long-Range Fuel Burn | 182 gph (~68 gph less) |
| Service Ceiling | 41,000 ft |
| Wing Span | 51 ft 5 in (15.66 m) |
| Length | 51 ft 2 in (15.60 m) |
| Height | 17 ft 7 in (5.36 m) |
| Wingtip Devices | Yes (drag reduction) |
| External Baggage Compartment | None (800XP added this) |
| Weight Advantage Over 800XP | -600 lbs |
| Fuel Burn Advantage Over 800XP | -30 gph average |
| Pre-Owned Price (2025) | $1,500,000 to $3,500,000 |
History as the U.S.-Certified Hawker 800
The Hawker 800A was the U.S.-certified variant of the broader Hawker 800 program, with the "A" suffix indicating U.S. FAA certification basis (vs "B" for non-U.S. markets). The 800A established what would become the Hawker 800 family dynasty.
Platform timeline:
- April 1981: BAe board sanctions improvement program
- May 26, 1983: First flight
- 1983: Service entry as BAe 125-800A in U.S. market
- 1983-1993: British Aerospace production at Hatfield/Broughton
- June 1993: BAe Corporate Jets sold to Raytheon
- November 5, 1996: First U.S.-built 800 first flight (Wichita)
- April 29, 1997: Last UK-built 800
- 1995: Hawker 800XP introduced
Why 800A Distinction Matters
The Hawker 800A vs 800B distinction reflects regional certification basis:
| Specification | Hawker 800A | Hawker 800B |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | U.S. FAA | Non-U.S. (international) |
| Primary Market | North America | International markets |
| Operating Basis | U.S. operations preferred | International preferred |
| Importing to U.S. | Easy (already U.S. certified) | Bureaucratic complexity |
| Available Operational Support | U.S. operators network | International operators network |
For U.S. operators, the 800A is the preferred acquisition target due to simpler certification compliance and easier U.S. operational integration.
Hawker 800 Family Lineage
The Hawker 800A is the foundational member of an extensive family:
| Variant | Years | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hawker 800A | 1983-1995 | U.S. certified, TFE731-5R-1H, original wing |
| Hawker 800B | 1983-1995 | Non-U.S. certified, otherwise identical |
| Hawker 800SP | Aftermarket | Aviation Partners winglets retrofit |
| Hawker 800XP | 1995-2006 | TFE731-5BR-1H (4,500 lbf), Hawker 1000 wing, external baggage |
| Hawker 800XPi | Late 800XP era | Updated interior |
| Hawker 800XP2 | Aftermarket | 800XP with Aviation Partners winglets |
| Hawker 750 | 800XP-based | External baggage replaces ventral fuel tank |
| Hawker 850XP | 2006-2009 | 800XP + winglets + upgraded interior |
| Hawker 900XP | 2008-2013 | TFE731-50R engines, new avionics, longer range |
Key Improvements Over Hawker 700A
The Hawker 800A introduced multiple substantial improvements over the predecessor 700A:
1. More Powerful AlliedSignal TFE731-5R-1H Engines
- 4,200 lbf per engine: Up from 700's 3,720 lbf (+13%)
- Modernized engine variant: Refined TFE731 family
- Better hot-and-high performance: Increased operational envelope
2. Industry-First EFIS Glass Cockpit
The 800A was the FIRST corporate jet with an EFIS cockpit:
- Five display screens: All-digital flight information
- Modern cockpit ergonomics: Reduced pilot workload
- Industry-first achievement: Major historical milestone
3. Redesigned Wing With Wingtip Devices
- Increased wingspan: 47'0" (700) → 51'5" (800A)
- Wingtip devices: Reduced drag
- Wing area: 353 → 374 sq ft
- Improved cruise efficiency: Modernized aerodynamics
4. Redesigned Cockpit Windscreen
- Modernized appearance: Visual identification
- Improved visibility: Updated design
5. Tailfin Extension
- Improved stability: Better high-speed handling
Cabin Interior
The 800A cabin features the proven 125 family stand-up configuration:
Standard 8-Passenger Configuration
- 4-Person Club Section: Forward cabin
- 3-Person Divan: Aft cabin
- Single Forward-Facing Seat: Aft
- Fully Adjustable Seats: 360° swivel
- Enclosed Aft Lavatory: Standard
- Extra Seat in Lavatory: Optional
Cabin Features
- Low-70-decibel cabin noise: With proper soundproofing
- Stand-up cabin: 125 family heritage
- Multiple soundproofing options: Available
- Various interior configurations: Customer preference
- Engines mounted at rear fuselage: Quieter operation
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed (FL370) | 442 ktas |
| Long-Range Cruise (FL410) | 389 to 401 ktas |
| Range (NBAA IFR) | 2,500 nm |
| Service Ceiling | 41,000 ft |
The Hawker 800A has a longer range than other aircraft in its class at introduction, allowing for flights from New York to Los Angeles or Singapore to Beijing.
Engines
Two AlliedSignal (now Honeywell) TFE731-5R-1H turbofan engines, each producing 4,200 lbf of thrust (8,400 lbf total).
Engine characteristics:
- 400 lbf less than 800XP engines: TFE731-5BR-1H on XP has 4,500 lbf
- 30 gph less fuel burn: Average advantage over 800XP
- 600 lbs lighter overall aircraft: Weight advantage over 800XP
Avionics
Honeywell SPZ-8000 5-display EFIS system (first corporate jet to feature this):
- Five display screens: All-digital flight information
- GPS: Standard
- High Frequency communications: Standard
- GPWS (Ground Proximity Warning System): Standard
- TCAS II: Standard
- Dual autopilot: Standard
- Common retrofits: ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV, Pro Line 21 upgrades
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel (~220 gph) | $1,540 to $1,980 |
| Engine Reserve | $500 |
| Airframe Maintenance | $700 |
| Misc Variable | $350 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$3,090 to $3,530/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $2.5 to $2.9 million all-in.
The 800A's 30 gph fuel burn advantage over the 800XP can translate to meaningful annual operating cost savings.
Pricing
| Year Range | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 1992 to 1995 Hawker 800A (final production) | $2,500,000 to $3,500,000 |
| 1988 to 1991 Hawker 800A | $1,900,000 to $2,800,000 |
| 1983 to 1987 Hawker 800A (early production) | $1,500,000 to $2,200,000 |
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- U.S. Operators Seeking Hawker 800 Family: U.S. certification advantage
- Fuel-Conscious Operators: 30 gph less burn than 800XP
- Charter Operators: Strong dispatch reliability, proven platform
- 8-9 Passenger Corporate Operations: Stand-up cabin
Less suited if:
- You need external baggage compartment (only 800XP+ have it)
- You require modern Pro Line 21 avionics (consider 800XP+)
- You want winglets for fuel efficiency (consider 850XP or aftermarket SP)
- You need best-in-class range (consider 900XP)
- You require single-pilot certification (not certified)
Pros and Cons
What the Hawker 800A Does Well
- U.S. FAA certified (vs 800B's non-U.S. basis)
- First corporate jet with EFIS glass cockpit (industry milestone)
- 4,200 lbf TFE731-5R-1H engines
- 600 lbs lighter than 800XP successor
- 30 gph less fuel burn than 800XP
- Increased wingspan with wingtip devices
- 2,500 nm range
- 442 ktas (Mach 0.80) cruise at FL370
- Foundational Hawker 800 family aircraft
- Low-70-decibel cabin with proper soundproofing
Tradeoffs to Understand
- No external baggage compartment (added on 800XP)
- 442 ktas cruise modest vs newer 800XP (447 ktas)
- 41,000 ft service ceiling
- Production ended 1995
- Honeywell SPZ-8000 avionics dated (typically retrofitted)
- Two-pilot operation required
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Hawker 800A different from the Hawker 800?
The "Hawker 800" generally refers to the broader family (BAe 125-800), while the "Hawker 800A" specifically refers to the U.S.-certified variant. Mechanically the aircraft are essentially identical; the distinction is in certification basis (800A = U.S. FAA; 800B = non-U.S.).
How is the Hawker 800A different from the Hawker 800XP?
The Hawker 800XP (1995) introduced more powerful TFE731-5BR-1H engines (4,500 lbf vs 800A's 4,200 lbf), the Hawker 1000 wing (replacing the 800A's wingtip device wing), longer range capability, and 45 cu ft external baggage compartment (which the 800A lacks). The XP is heavier (+600 lbs), faster cruise (447 ktas vs 442 ktas), and burns ~30 gph more fuel on average.
Is the Hawker 800A single-pilot certified?
No. The Hawker 800A requires two pilots.
How far can a Hawker 800A fly?
The Hawker 800A has a typical NBAA IFR range of approximately 2,500 nautical miles.
What engines power the Hawker 800A?
Two AlliedSignal (now Honeywell) TFE731-5R-1H turbofan engines, each producing 4,200 lbf of thrust.
How is the Hawker 800A different from the Hawker 800B?
The Hawker 800A is the U.S.-certified variant; the 800B is the non-U.S. (international) certification variant. The aircraft are mechanically identical with regional certification differences. U.S. operators typically prefer the 800A for simpler operational compliance.
What is the Hawker 800SP?
The Hawker 800SP is the aftermarket designation for Hawker 800A/B aircraft retrofitted with Aviation Partners winglets. The SP designation reflects the "Special Performance" provided by the winglet retrofit, similar to how the 850XP is essentially the 800XP with factory winglets.
Should I buy a Hawker 800A or 800XP?
For U.S. operators prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower acquisition cost, the 800A is compelling. For operators valuing external baggage capability, modern Pro Line 21 avionics (in later 800XPi versions), and slightly faster cruise, the 800XP is preferable. The 800A's 30 gph fuel burn advantage can be meaningful for high-utilization operators.
The Bottom Line
The Hawker 800A is the U.S.-certified foundational variant of the legendary Hawker 800 family, delivering industry-first EFIS glass cockpit, proven AlliedSignal TFE731-5R-1H engines, and 2,500 nm range capability with a meaningful fuel burn advantage over the later 800XP successor. At current pre-owned pricing of $1.5 to $3.5 million, the 800A offers exceptional value for U.S. operators seeking proven Hawker 800-family ownership without the price premium of newer variants. The lack of external baggage compartment is a notable tradeoff vs the 800XP, but the lighter weight and lower fuel burn deliver real operational economics. For Hawker enthusiasts and fuel-conscious operators, the 800A remains a strong choice.
Quantum Jets supports the platform across private jet charter, private jet rental, private jet card programs, aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, and aircraft leasing structures.
Talk to a Quantum Jets broker for Hawker 800A market intelligence and pre-buy diligence with attention to maintenance history and engine programs.
[CTA Button: Talk to a Quantum Jets Broker]
Book a Hawker 800A on the Quantum Jets App by AVIA Technologies
The Quantum Jets mobile app, built by AVIA Technologies, is the private jet charter marketplace app for the Hawker 800A and the rest of the Quantum Jets catalog. The Quantum Jets app is available as an iOS app on the Apple App Store and as an Android app on Google Play. Whether the goal is a one-off jet charter, recurring private jet rental, a private jet card program, or a deeper engagement spanning aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, aircraft leasing, or aircraft sales, the Quantum Jets app surfaces live Hawker 800A availability and routes the booking through the Quantum Jets brokerage team.
AVIA Technologies is the technology platform behind the Quantum Jets mobile app. The AVIA Technologies app powers the private jet charter marketplace experience: search the catalog, compare a Hawker 800A against alternatives in the same tier, pull live pricing, request a charter quote, schedule aircraft maintenance, list a Hawker 800A for jet sales, manage a fleet under aircraft management or private jet management, and execute a private jet card purchase, all from one private jet app. The Quantum Jets app and the AVIA Technologies app share the same backend so client data, trip history, and aircraft preferences carry across both surfaces.
Download the Quantum Jets app on the Apple App Store (iOS app) or Google Play (Android app), then search the Hawker 800A to start booking. The Quantum Jets mobile app is the fastest path from research to booking for any private jet, jet charter, private jet rental, or private jet charter marketplace transaction in the Quantum Jets catalog. AVIA Technologies maintains the private jet charter marketplace app on a continuous deployment schedule with new aircraft, new operators, and refined private jet management tooling shipping every release.
Hawker 800A Services from Quantum Jets
Quantum Jets supports Hawker 800A operators and prospective owners across the full lifecycle of private jet ownership. Whether the goal is jet charter for a one-off trip, a private jet rental for a busy season, or a private jet charter program tied to a recurring travel pattern, our team builds the right structure around the Hawker 800A for the mission.
For buyers, our aircraft purchase and jet purchase advisory walks through inspection, valuation, financing, and closing. Jet sales and aircraft sales clients work with our team to position the Hawker 800A for the strongest possible exit, with market intelligence on every comparable transaction. A private jet card program through Quantum Jets is a lower-commitment way to access Hawker 800A-class lift without a full aircraft purchase, and is structured to credit toward a future jet purchase when the time is right.
Once an aircraft is in hand, aircraft management and jet management at Quantum Jets cover crew, scheduling, regulatory compliance, charter revenue programs, and detailed reporting. Private jet management is structured to keep the Hawker 800A flying safely and profitably with minimum owner overhead. Aircraft maintenance is coordinated through manufacturer-authorized service centers, and aircraft refurbishment programs (interior, paint, avionics, connectivity) are managed end-to-end so the Hawker 800A retains residual value over its operating life.
Fractional jet programs are available for Hawker 800A-class travelers who want guaranteed access without sole ownership. Aircraft lease and aircraft leasing arrangements (operating, finance, dry, wet) are structured to match the operator's hours, geography, and balance sheet. The Hawker 800A fits naturally into all of these structures, and Quantum Jets handles the structuring, documentation, and lifecycle service so the owner can focus on flying.
If you are evaluating a Hawker 800A for purchase, charter, lease, fractional access, management, refurbishment, or sale, talk to a Quantum Jets broker for a custom market scan and pre-buy diligence.
Related Aircraft Guides:
- Hawker 700: Predecessor Variant (No EFIS, Lower-Thrust Engines)
- Hawker 800: Family Overview / Same Aircraft (Different Designation Focus)
- Hawker 800XP: Direct Successor (More Powerful, External Baggage)
- Hawker 800SP: Aftermarket Variant With Winglets
Production of the Hawker 800A ended in 1995. All acquisitions are pre-owned. Textron Aviation provides parts/support. Specifications accurate as of 2026.