Cessna 402C Specifications & Booking
Overview of the Cessna 402C
The Cessna 402C is a commercial, multi-engine aircraft designed for short-range transportation. Manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company, it first took to the skies in 1975 and has since become a popular choice for regional airlines, charter operators, and cargo transporters.
Technical Specifications
The Cessna 402C boasts the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions:
- Length: 39 feet 10 inches (12.14 meters)
- Wingspan: 43 feet 1 inch (13.13 meters)
- Height: 11 feet 4 inches (3.45 meters)
- Weight:
- Empty weight: approximately 5,400 pounds (2,449 kilograms)
- Maximum takeoff weight: around 9,300 pounds (4,218 kilograms)
- Engines:
- Type: Continental IO-520-E or Lycoming IO-540-K1A5
- Thrust: 260 horsepower (194 kilowatts) per engine
- Fuel efficiency: approximately 15 gallons per hour (56.8 liters per hour)
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: 255 knots (472 kilometers per hour)
- Range: up to 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 kilometers)
- Cruising altitude: typically around 8,000 feet (2,438 meters)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: up to 9
- Cargo: approximately 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms)
- Crew: typically one pilot and one co-pilot
Design and Features
The Cessna 402C features a distinctive fuselage design with a high-mounted wing and a T-tail configuration. Its innovative aerodynamics, combined with its robust engines, provide excellent performance and handling characteristics.
History and Development
The development of the Cessna 402C was marked by several key milestones:
- First flight: October 1975
- Certification: December 1976
- Entry into service: March 1977
The Cessna 402C faced challenges during its development, including issues with engine reliability and turbulence. However, these were addressed through design improvements and the introduction of more reliable engines.
Operational Use
The Cessna 402C is commonly used for regional transportation services, charter flights, and cargo transport. It has been operated by several airlines and organizations, including:
- Airline operators: such as Piedmont Airlines, American Eagle, and United Express
- Charter companies: like BEM Air Transport and Transair
- Cargo transporters: like FedEx and UPS
Interesting Facts
Here are three interesting facts about the Cessna 402C:
- The Cessna 402C was designed to meet the requirements of the US Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Part 23 regulations for commercial aircraft.
- The aircraft has been used in several record-breaking flights, including a non-stop flight from Los Angeles to Miami in 1978.
- The Cessna 402C has appeared in several films and television shows, such as the TV series "Airwolf" and the movie "The Great Waldo Pepper."
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Cessna 402C unique?
The Cessna 402C's unique features include its robust engines, high-mounted wing, and T-tail configuration, which provide excellent performance and handling characteristics.
How much does the Cessna 402C cost?
The estimated cost of a new Cessna 402C ranges from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, depending on the configuration and customization.
What is the range of the Cessna 402C?
The Cessna 402C has a maximum range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 kilometers), making it suitable for regional transportation services and short-range cargo transport.
Which airlines operate the Cessna 402C?
Airlines that have operated the Cessna 402C include Piedmont Airlines, American Eagle, United Express, FedEx, UPS, and others.
Is the Cessna 402C still in production?
No, the Cessna 402C is no longer in production. The last aircraft was delivered in the late 1980s, but it remains a popular choice for regional transportation services and cargo transport due to its reliability, performance, and low operating costs.
