About the BEECH 400A
The Beechcraft 400A, a jet developed by Beechcraft, is a significant player in the realm of general aviation. Its production history and overall design reflect a targeted effort to cater to the needs of business aviation, a sector demanding both performance and comfort within a compact and efficient framework. The aircraft's roots trace back to the early 1980s, when Beechcraft acquired the Mitsubishi MU-300 Diamond, which later evolved into the Beechjet 400 and then the Beechcraft 400A series. The 400A model first flew in 1984 and officially began deliveries in 1986. This jet was introduced primarily to provide a competitive option in the light business jet market, standing as a direct competitor to aircraft such as the Cessna Citation series and the Learjet 31. One of the defining motivations behind the production of the Beechcraft 400A was to improve on the Diamond's existing design by enhancing performance, increasing range, and offering greater operational efficiencies. The 400A model in particular featured several upgrades over its predecessors, including a stretched fuselage for increased cabin space, enhanced aerodynamics, and upgraded avionics. The cabin could comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, thereby balancing luxury with efficiency. Moreover, its Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5 engines endowed it with commendable thrust, enabling a cruise speed of around 450 knots and a range of approximately 1,400 nautical miles. This capability made it an attractive choice for corporate travel, enabling efficient short to medium-haul flights. By the time production ceased in the late 1990s, the 400A had solidified its reputation for reliability and performance. In essence, the Beechcraft 400A serves as a testament to Beechcraft’s commitment to innovation in business aviation, marrying robust engineering with user-centric features to carve out a niche in the competitive light jet market.