Overview of the Sabreliner 60
The Sabreliner 60 is a twin-turbine, medium-range business jet manufactured by Rockwell International's (now part of Textron Aviation) Sabreliner division. This commercial-grade aircraft was primarily designed for corporate and VIP transportation, with its first flight taking place on September 17, 1963.
Technical Specifications
The Sabreliner 60 boasts the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions:
- Length: 57 feet 4 inches (17.47 meters)
- Wingspan: 53 feet 1 inch (16.19 meters)
- Height: 15 feet 6 inches (4.72 meters)
- Weight:
- Empty weight: approximately 14,500 pounds (6,622 kilograms)
- Maximum takeoff weight: around 25,000 pounds (11,340 kilograms)
- Engines:
- Type: AlliedSignal T76 turboprop engines
- Thrust: each engine produces approximately 1,200 horsepower (895 kW)
- Fuel efficiency: around 0.35 pounds per horsepower-hour
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: approximately 350 knots (647 kilometers per hour)
- Range: roughly 2,500 nautical miles (4,630 kilometers) at cruise altitude and speed
- Cruising altitude: typically around 28,000 feet (8,534 meters)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: eight to ten passengers in typical corporate configuration
- Cargo: limited cargo capacity due to passenger accommodations
- Crew: one or two pilots, depending on mission requirements
Design and Features
The Sabreliner 60 features a unique design that sets it apart from other aircraft. Its fuselage is constructed using aluminum alloy and has a distinctive curved shape. The aircraft also boasts a high-mounted wing with a rectangular planform, as well as a T-tail configuration.
History and Development
The Sabreliner 60 underwent several key milestones during its development:
- First flight: September 17, 1963
- Certification: December 1964 by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- Entry into service: early 1965 with a corporate client
- Significant upgrades or variants: several minor updates and avionics modernizations throughout its production run, as well as a stretched variant called the Sabreliner 80
Operational Use
The Sabreliner 60 has been used by various airlines, organizations, and government agencies for a range of missions:
- Airlines or organizations that operate it: several corporate flight departments, charter operators, and government agencies have flown the Sabreliner 60
- Popular routes or missions: typically shorter-range flights within North America or transatlantic routes
- Role in aviation history: the Sabreliner 60 played a minor role in several record-breaking flights and military operations during its service life
Interesting Facts
Here are three interesting facts about the Sabreliner 60:
- Unique design choices: the Sabreliner 60's curved fuselage was designed to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics
- Famous flights or events: the aircraft played a supporting role in several record-breaking flights, including a 1966 flight around the world by a private pilot
- Pop culture appearances: the Sabreliner 60 has appeared in several films and television shows, often as a symbol of luxury and wealth
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Sabreliner 60 unique?
The Sabreliner 60's unique design features, such as its curved fuselage and high-mounted wing, make it stand out from other aircraft. Its twin-turbine propulsion system also provides a significant increase in power compared to earlier propeller-driven designs.
How much does the Sabreliner 60 cost?
The estimated cost of a Sabreliner 60 ranges from $500,000 to over $1 million, depending on its configuration, customization, and maintenance history. Prices can fluctuate based on market demand and availability.
What is the range of the Sabreliner 60?
The Sabreliner 60 has a maximum range of approximately 2,500 nautical miles (4,630 kilometers) at cruise altitude and speed. This makes it suitable for shorter-range flights within North America or transatlantic routes.
Which airlines operate the Sabreliner 60?
The Sabreliner 60 is primarily used by corporate flight departments and charter operators, rather than commercial airlines. Some government agencies have also operated the aircraft in support of military operations or special missions.
Is the Sabreliner 60 still in service?
A small number of Sabreliner 60s remain in service today, primarily with corporate flight departments and charter operators. However, many more have been retired from active duty due to age and maintenance costs.