About the AERO COMMANDER 112
The Aero Commander 112 is a notable aircraft in the field of general aviation, manufactured by North American Rockwell (later Rockwell International). The development of the 112 model began in the late 1960s, with the goal of creating a high-performance, single-engine, four-seat aircraft to compete in the burgeoning market for personal and business flying. Designed to offer a blend of comfort, performance, and economy, the 112 first flew in 1970 and was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 1971. Full-scale production commenced shortly thereafter, and the aircraft was introduced to the market in 1972. The initial model was powered by a Lycoming IO-360 engine, capable of producing 200 horsepower. One of the key motivations behind developing the Aero Commander 112 was to provide a modern alternative to the older aircraft designs that were prevalent at the time. The 112 featured a low-wing configuration, all-metal construction, and a stylish design, which gave it an edge in aesthetics as well as performance. The airplane's ample cabin space and comfortable seating made it a popular choice for personal travel and small business uses. However, the Aero Commander 112 faced several challenges during its production run. Early models of the 112 experienced issues with performance, particularly relating to weight and balance. These problems were addressed in subsequent variants, such as the 112A, which incorporated several improvements, including better aerodynamics and upgraded avionics. Despite these enhancements, production numbers remained relatively low due to competition from other established aircraft manufacturers and economic fluctuations. The 112 series was eventually succeeded by the more powerful Aero Commander 114, which offered better performance and payload capacity. Despite its relatively short production span, the Aero Commander 112 remains a respected aircraft in the aviation community, known for its solid design and comfortable flying experience. Today, it is valued by aviation enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its place in the history of general aviation.