About the RAYTHEON AIRCRAFT COMPANY A36
The Raytheon Aircraft Company A36, also known as the Beechcraft Bonanza A36, is a testament to the enduring legacy and engineering prowess of Beechcraft, a subsidiary under Raytheon Aircraft Company. The A36 is part of the iconic Bonanza series, which has been in continuous production since 1947, making it one of the longest-produced aircraft models in history. The A36 itself was introduced in 1970 as a part of this versatile and popular range of single-engine, general aviation aircraft.
The motivation behind the production of the A36 was to create an aircraft that combined performance, comfort, and utility, serving primarily the high-end private pilot and business aircraft segment. The A36 was designed to provide enhanced cabin space and comfort, making it more suitable for business travel and transporting small groups. The aircraft features a longer fuselage compared to its predecessors, which allows for six seats and a more spacious and comfortable cabin.
Key Features and Capabilities
One of the standout features of the A36 is its powerful Continental IO-520 or later IO-550 300-horsepower engine, which enables a cruise speed of around 174 knots (200 mph) and a range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles. This makes the A36 not only a comfortable aircraft for short trips but also a capable performer for longer cross-country flights. Additionally, the A36 offers robust avionics and instrumentation, which can be upgraded to modern standards, including GPS and glass cockpit configurations.
Production of the A36 continued until the late 2000s, with its successor, the G36 Bonanza, now continuing the legacy with modern enhancements and technological updates. The A36 has remained a popular choice for pilots due to its balance of performance, comfort, and reliability. It occupies a niche that appeals to both private owners and corporate operators who need a dependable and capable aircraft for a variety of missions. The A36 Bonanza stands as a symbol of Beechcraft’s commitment to quality and innovation in general aviation.