About the SHORT BROS C-23B SHERPA
The Short Bros SD3-60, also known as the Shorts 360, is a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner that was developed by the British manufacturer Short Brothers in the early 1980s. The aircraft was designed as a larger derivative of the successful Shorts 330, itself a stretched version of the earlier Shorts Skyvan. The primary motivation for the development of the SD3-60 was to offer regional airlines a more capacious and efficient aircraft suitable for short-haul routes, accommodating a burgeoning demand for commuter and regional flights during the period.
The first flight of the Shorts 360 took place on June 1, 1981, with the first deliveries commencing in 1982. The aircraft features a high-mounted wing with a boxy, angular fuselage design that maximizes the internal volume, allowing it to carry up to 39 passengers in a typical configuration. This makes it an ideal choice for airlines operating in regions with less-developed infrastructure, as it offers flexibility in terms of cargo and passenger loads.
Key Features and Capabilities
Throughout its production run, which continued until 1991, a total of 165 Shorts 360 aircraft were built. The SD3-60 is often praised for its rugged construction, reliability, and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, which make it particularly suited for use in remote or undeveloped airfields. Its versatility is further enhanced by a rear loading ramp, which allows for the efficient loading and unloading of cargo.
Operators of the Shorts 360 include numerous regional carriers and freight companies, particularly in North America, Europe, and Africa. While it does not possess the modern aerodynamics or speed of contemporary turboprops, its simplicity, durability, and economic operation have cemented its status as a dependable workhorse in the regional aviation sector.
Market Position and Use Cases
In summary, the Shorts 360 played a significant role in the regional and commuter airline industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Its design emphasized capacity and operational versatility, carving out a niche in markets needing robust, reliable aircraft with excellent cargo and passenger capabilities for short-haul operations.