About the SMITH JOSEPH C CHALLENGER II
The Smith Aerostar 600 is a notable aircraft in the history of general aviation, recognized for its unique design and performance capabilities. Initially conceived and developed in the 1960s by Ted R. Smith, a prolific aerospace engineer, the Aerostar was introduced to the market as a high-performance light twin-engine aircraft. Ted Smith had previously designed the successful Aero Commander series, and his goal with the Aerostar was to create an aircraft that combined speed, efficiency, and advanced aerodynamics with relatively low operating costs. The prototype first flew in 1967, and the aircraft quickly caught the attention of aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike due to its impressive performance and sleek design. Production of the Aerostar 600 began in earnest in 1969 after Smith's organization merged with the American Cement Company, which later became the Aerostar Aircraft Corporation. The Aerostar 600 was powered by two Lycoming IO-540-K engines, each providing 290 horsepower, giving the aircraft a cruising speed of approximately 285 miles per hour, which was exceptional for its class at the time. It featured a pressurized cabin, a retractable landing gear, and a T-tail configuration, which contributed to its aerodynamic efficiency. The aircraft was designed to serve the niche market of business and personal travel, offering a faster and more efficient alternative to many of the general aviation aircraft available in the late 1960s and 1970s. One of the key benefits of the Aerostar 600 was its speed, which was comparable to that of many small jets, but with more economical operating costs. Moreover, its robust construction and advanced design elements made it a favored choice among discerning pilots who appreciated its handling and performance characteristics. Over time, the Aerostar underwent various upgrades and modifications, leading to the development of other models such as the Aerostar Super 700, which continued to build on the legacy of high-performance light twin-engine aircraft initiated by the Aerostar 600. Despite changes in ownership and production over the years, the Aerostar 600 remains a celebrated model for its contributions to general aviation and its lasting impact on aircraft design and performance standards.