HS 125

The Hawker Siddeley HS 125, originally introduced as the de Havilland DH 125, entered service in 1962 and quickly established itself as a benchmark for midsize business jets. Developed in the United Kingdom, the aircraft stemmed from an earlier military trainer concept that was re‑engineered for the corporate market, combining a sleek, low‑wing design with a spacious cabin. Early models were powered by two Rolls‑Royce Viper turbo‑jets, later upgraded to more efficient Garrett TFE731 turbofans, boosting range to over 2,500 nautical miles and cruising speed near Mach 0.78. Its distinctive T‑tail and pressurised cabin allowed occupants to fly at altitudes above most weather systems, enhancing comfort and operational flexibility. Over its production run—spanning more than three decades—the HS 125 saw numerous variants, including the HS‑125‑200, the executive‑focused HS‑125‑400, and the military‑oriented HS‑125‑4000 used for surveillance and transport. More than 900 airframes were built, making it one of the most successful business jets of its era. The aircraft’s reliability, long‑range capability, and adaptable platform cemented its role in shaping modern corporate aviation and laid groundwork for later Hawker, Beechcraft and Bombardier business‑jet designs.

Hawker Siddeley

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Design & Classification