About the BEECH C23
The Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is a cornerstone of Beechcraft's series of general aviation aircraft, often celebrated for its reliability and practical design. Originally introduced by Beechcraft, a division of the Raytheon Company, the C23 Sundowner made its maiden flight in 1970 and quickly became a popular choice within the general aviation community. The roots of the C23 date back to the Musketeer line, serving as a development beside the Beechcraft Model 23 series. The Sundowner designation was introduced to distinguish this model from other similar variants within the Beechcraft piston-engine aircraft roster.
The primary motivation for producing the C23 Sundowner lay in addressing the need for a versatile, user-friendly aircraft that could serve both as a trainer for new pilots and as a reliable mode of transportation for personal or small business use. With general aviation growing considerably in the 1960s and 1970s, Beechcraft sought to capitalize on the market by offering an aircraft that was easier to fly than many of its contemporaries, while maintaining high standards of build quality and performance.
Key Features and Capabilities
Manufactured between 1970 and 1983, the C23 comes equipped with a Lycoming O-360 engine that delivers around 180 horsepower. This engine choice gives the Sundowner a balanced mix of power and efficiency, offering a cruise speed of approximately 120 knots and a range of around 500 nautical miles, making it suitable for both short-distance commutes and longer flights. The aircraft features a spacious cabin with seating for four, providing both comfort and functionality.
One of the benefits of the Beechcraft C23 Sundowner is its sturdy construction. The aircraft's design features a fixed tricycle landing gear and a low-wing configuration, which together enhance its stability and overall ease of handling. It also incorporates simpler avionics compared to more advanced aircraft, making it accessible for less experienced pilots. Due to these characteristics, the Sundowner fills a well-defined niche in general aviation, as both a capable trainer and a reliable travel companion for amateur pilots.