About the RAYTHEON AIRCRAFT COMPANY 58
The Raytheon Aircraft Company 58, commonly known as the Beechcraft Baron 58, is a renowned light, twin-engine piston aircraft that has been a staple in the general aviation community since its introduction in the late 1960s. Originating from the Beechcraft Baron family, the Baron 58 was developed to offer a more powerful and spacious alternative to its predecessor, the Baron 55, which had been a successful model throughout the 1960s.
Production of the Baron 58 began in 1969, with Raytheon’s primary motivation being to address the growing demand for business and personal travel aircraft that could offer greater performance, reliability, and comfort. The Baron 58 is distinguished by its extended cabin length, which provides more space for passengers and cargo, as well as its more powerful engines—typically two Continental IO-520 or IO-550 engines, which allow for impressive speed and range.
Key Features and Capabilities
The Beechcraft Baron 58 quickly carved out a niche in the market as a high-performance, luxurious light twin suitable for a variety of roles. These include business travel, air taxi services, and personal use by pilots who demand performance and reliability. The aircraft's ability to fly in a wide range of conditions and its relatively long range make it a versatile choice for pilots who need to travel cross-country or access remote areas.
One of the Baron 58’s most significant benefits is its balance of speed, payload capacity, and ease of handling. It offers a cruise speed of around 200 knots and a range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles, which is considerable for an aircraft of its class. The Baron 58 also features advanced avionics and autopilot systems, which enhance safety and ease of operation. Over the decades, the Baron 58 has seen various upgrades, particularly in avionics and interior comfort, keeping it competitive in the modern aviation marketplace.
Market Position and Use Cases
Overall, the Beechcraft Baron 58 is widely respected for its combination of performance, versatility, and luxury, continuing to be a favorite among pilots and aviation enthusiasts even decades after its initial release.