About the CESSNA 340A
The Cessna 340 is a twin-engine cabin-class general aviation aircraft that was produced by Cessna Aircraft Company. Introduced in 1971, this model filled the market niche for a pressurized, piston-engine light twin aircraft, aimed at both the business and personal travel market. The Cessna 340 was designed to offer a combination of performance, comfort, and reliability that appealed particularly to business executives, companies with frequent travel needs, and private owners seeking efficient long-range capability.
The production of the Cessna 340 continued until 1984, with several versions and improvements introduced over the years. Initially, Cessna sought to create an aircraft that could bridge the gap between its smaller twin-engine aircraft, such as the Cessna 310, and its larger, more expensive turbo-props like the Cessna 441 Conquest. The motivation for production stemmed from the growing demand in the 1960s and 1970s for aircraft that could provide pressurized cabins and superior performance compared to the unpressurized models available at the time.
Key Features and Capabilities
Equipped with two Continental TSIO-520 engines, the Cessna 340 could achieve a cruising speed of around 229 knots and had a range of approximately 1,400 nautical miles. Its pressurized cabin could comfortably seat four to six passengers, a significant advantage for those needing to fly at higher altitudes without sacrificing comfort. This made it particularly well-suited for flights over mountainous regions or on longer routes where adverse weather conditions might necessitate higher cruising altitudes.
Throughout its production run, the Cessna 340 was praised for its robust design, reliability, and operational economy. It featured modern avionics for the time, enhancing its appeal to both corporate flight departments and private owners. Significant improvements over time included better fuel efficiency, upgraded avionics systems, and increased passenger comfort.
Market Position and Use Cases
In essence, the Cessna 340 remains an iconic model in the general aviation industry. Its blend of performance, comfort, and capability ensured its position as a highly regarded aircraft in the market, and it continues to be a popular choice among aviators even decades after the end of its production.