Sky Quest Retires Last Hawker 400XP Jet
Sky Quest, a U.S.-based private jet charter operator, has officially retired its sole Hawker 400XP aircraft from its Part 135-certified fleet. The retirement marks the end of an era for Sky Quest’s use of the Hawker 400XP, a popular light business jet, as the company focuses on other aircraft types. According to FAA records, the jet, registered as N65SQ (msn RK-438), was transferred to MTJ Aviation, although it has not yet been added to MTJ Aviation’s Part 135 certificate.
Final Flight and Transfer Details
N65SQ completed its last flight under Sky Quest’s “ERY” code on September 4, 2024, with a test flight around Greenville/Spartanburg Donaldson. This 19.4-year-old aircraft, which had operated under U.S. registration throughout its life, joined Sky Quest in 2019. Initially registered as N438BC, it was re-registered as N65SQ in September 2020. The transfer to MTJ Aviation signals a new chapter for the jet, although it is not currently listed on MTJ Aviation’s operational certificate.
Sky Quest’s Updated Charter Fleet
Following the retirement of the Hawker 400XP, Sky Quest’s Part 135 fleet now consists of 22 aircraft. The lineup includes:
- One Challenger 300
- One Challenger 350
- Two Challenger 605s
- One Gulfstream G450
- A range of Hawker models: one 400XT, one 850XP, three 800XPIs, one additional 800XPi(2), three 850XPs, and three 900XPs
- Five Learjet 40XRs
Sky Quest provides private jet charter services in addition to aircraft management, sales support, and jet card membership options. With a diverse fleet of medium and large jets, Sky Quest can cater to a wide range of travel needs, from short domestic hops to longer, cross-country routes.
MTJ Aviation’s Specialized Fleet and Services
MTJ Aviation, the new owner of the retired Hawker 400XP, operates a fleet primarily composed of Hawker Beechcraft aircraft. The company’s Part 135 fleet includes two Beechjet 400As, one Hawker 400XPR, and two Hawker 400XPs. Specializing in 24/7 medical flights, MTJ Aviation frequently performs organ transplant missions, serving transplant centers nationwide. In addition to its medical transport services, MTJ Aviation also offers private charter flights for passengers seeking specialized travel solutions.
The End of an Era for Sky Quest’s Hawker 400XP
The retirement of Sky Quest’s last Hawker 400XP reflects a shift in its fleet strategy, focusing on more versatile and advanced aircraft. The Hawker 400XP, known for its compact design and efficiency on shorter routes, had been a staple in private aviation but is gradually being phased out by operators in favor of newer models that offer enhanced performance and comfort.
As Sky Quest refines its fleet, the company is well-positioned to continue delivering high-quality private jet services with a focus on larger, longer-range aircraft. Meanwhile, MTJ Aviation’s acquisition of the Hawker 400XP will bolster its medical and charter services, aligning with its mission to provide critical medical flights and efficient private charters.
With this strategic fleet update, Sky Quest remains committed to delivering tailored aviation services, from charter flights to aircraft management, ensuring flexibility and comfort for its clients. The transition highlights ongoing changes in the private aviation market as operators adapt to evolving customer demands and modernize their fleets.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com