- In spring of 1997, the company marks 50 years of continuous production of the popular single-engine Bonanza series.
- In the summer of 1997, the company delivers the 180th and final T-1 Jayhawk pilot trainer to the U.S. Air Force.
- In the summer of 1997, the company delivers the 180th and final T-1 Jayhawk pilot trainer to the U.S. Air Force.
- In July 1998, the first production T-6A Texan II makes its maiden flight. Four other production aircraft would join the first to conduct flight tests in preparation for first delivery in 1999.
- On December 22, 1998—exactly 53 years to the day from the first flight of the famed Beech Bonanza—the new Raytheon Premier I takes to the skies for the first time. The new entry-level business jet flew a successful 62-minute debut, paving the way for certification efforts in 1999.
- The new Raytheon Premier I entry-level business jet completes more than 700 flight hours toward certification, and validates all critical performance numbers.
- On March 23, 2001, the future of business aviation arrives. Raytheon Aircraft celebrates the Federal Aviation Administration certification of the new Premier I business jet. The Premier I is the first certified business jet with a composite fuselage, the first clean-sheet business jet certified by Raytheon Aircraft, and the first new airplane certified by Raytheon Aircraft in more than a decade.
- In an April 17, 2001, ceremony Raytheon Aircraft officially rolls out the second of its composite fuselage business jets . The super mid-size Hawker Horizon has transcontinental range and seating for up to 13.
- On May 30, 2001, James E. Schuster is named Chairman and CEO of Raytheon Aircraft, succeeding Hansel Tookes, who becomes President of Raytheon International Inc.
- On June 22, 2001, the innovative Premier I achieved an important milestone when first delivery was enthusiastically received by Troy Eaden.
- On Aug. 11, 2001, the new super mid-size business jet, the Hawker Horizon, conducts its maiden flight. The composite-fuselage jet flew a 2 ½-hour mission from Wichita’s Beech Field that tested the aircraft’s flying qualities, engine operation, low-speed handling and climb performance. The aircraft flew to 10,500 feet and operated at speeds up to 225 knots.
- At NBAA 2002, Raytheon Aircraft announced the return of the Hawker and Beechcraft brands. Both known worldwide for their high performance, reliability, and large, comfortable cabins the brands represent corporate-flown aircraft (Hawkers) and those certified for single-pilot flight (Beechcraft).
