For operators of Hawker 800 and 900 series aircraft, the 96-month inspection is one of the most comprehensive and invasive maintenance events the aircraft will undergo. Because of the scope involved, early planning can have a major impact on downtime, cost, and the overall success of the visit.

West Star Aviation has extensive experience supporting Hawker operators through major inspections, maintenance, avionics upgrades, modifications, interior refurbishment, and exterior paint. Our teams understand the complexity of the 96-month event and help operators plan the inspection strategically from initial input through return to service.

Understanding the Hawker 96-Month Inspection

The Hawker 96-month inspection requires extensive access and evaluation throughout the aircraft.

The scope includes detailed inspection of:

• Structural components
• Aircraft systems
• Avionics
• Electrical systems
• Flight controls

All flight controls and the ventral tank are removed as part of the inspection process. Heavy functional checks are also performed, and the aircraft interior is removed to provide access for required structural inspections.

This level of disassembly makes experience especially important. Technicians must understand not only the individual inspection tasks but also how each work scope affects access, sequencing, and the overall maintenance schedule.

In-House NDT Capability Helps Keep the Project Moving

The 96-month inspection includes structural areas that require X-ray Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).

West Star Aviation has NDT technicians on staff who can perform these inspections in-house. That capability reduces reliance on outside vendors and helps keep the inspection schedule under West Star’s direct control.

For operators, this can mean:

• Fewer scheduling variables
• Reduced outsourcing
• Improved coordination between maintenance and NDT teams
• Potential savings in time and cost

West Star’s in-house NDT expertise is another example of the resources available to Hawker operators during a major maintenance event.

Turn Required Downtime into an Upgrade Opportunity

Because the aircraft is already significantly opened and the interior has been removed, the 96-month inspection creates an ideal opportunity to complete additional work that might otherwise require another period of aircraft downtime.

Combining projects can eliminate duplicated access and removal work, making the overall maintenance event more efficient.

Avionics and Connectivity Upgrades

Modernizing the cockpit or cabin during a 96-month inspection can enhance aircraft capability, reliability, and long-term value.

Popular Hawker upgrades include:

• Pro Line 21 modernization packages
• Cabin Management System replacement
• Starlink connectivity
• Gogo Galileo HDX connectivity
• Garmin GI 275 standby altimeter modifications

West Star Aviation has extensive experience with business aviation connectivity and avionics modernization, allowing operators to evaluate upgrade options based on aircraft configuration, mission requirements, and long-term ownership plans.

Refresh the Cabin While It’s Already Apart

The 96-month inspection also provides a natural opportunity to modernize the interior.

Since much of the cabin has already been removed for structural access, operators can use the downtime to address aging materials or update the passenger environment without scheduling a separate interior event.

Common projects include:

• Wood veneer refurbishment
• Soft goods replacement
• New carpeting
• Seat refurbishment
• LED lighting upgrades

West Star’s interior teams can coordinate these improvements with the maintenance schedule, helping operators maximize the value of time the aircraft is already out of service.

Consider Exterior Paint at the Same Time

A repaint is more than an appearance upgrade.

Modern aircraft coatings provide an important layer of protection against:

• Corrosion
• UV exposure
• Moisture
• Environmental contaminants

Combining exterior paint with a 96-month inspection can be an efficient way to protect the aircraft while also improving its appearance and market value.

West Star Aviation operates state-of-the-art paint facilities at:

• East Alton, IL (ALN)
• Grand Junction, CO (GJT)
• Chattanooga, TN (CHA)
• Perryville, MO (PCD)

This gives Hawker operators multiple options for coordinating paint with a major inspection or refurbishment event.

Hawker Experience Matters

Keeping an aging Hawker operating safely, efficiently, and reliably requires technicians who understand the aircraft.

West Star Aviation’s Hawker specialists bring extensive platform knowledge to major inspections, troubleshooting, modifications, and ongoing maintenance. That experience is supported by dedicated teams in maintenance, avionics, interiors, paint, modifications, NDT, and project management.

Together, these resources allow West Star to manage the entire event rather than treating each work scope as a separate project.

Early Planning Is Key

If your Hawker is approaching its 96-month inspection, early coordination can make a meaningful difference.

Advance planning gives West Star time to:

• Review aircraft history and upcoming requirements
• Identify potential parts or tooling needs
• Coordinate NDT and structural access
• Evaluate avionics or connectivity upgrades
• Plan interior or paint work
• Develop an efficient project sequence

The goal is to minimize unnecessary downtime and return the aircraft to service as efficiently as possible.

Plan Your Next Hawker Inspection with West Star Aviation

Whether your aircraft is approaching a 96-month inspection or another major Hawker maintenance event, West Star Aviation has the experience, technical resources, and full-service capabilities to help you plan with confidence.