Cessna F-406 Specifications & Booking
Overview of the Cessna F-406
The Cessna F-406 is a commercial aircraft manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company, a leading producer of general aviation planes. The F-406 is a twin-engine, high-wing plane designed for cargo transport and passenger service. Its primary purpose is to provide efficient and reliable air transportation for small packages and light cargo. The first flight of the F-406 took place in 1962, marking a significant milestone in Cessna's history.
Technical Specifications
The F-406 has the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions:
- Length: 27.5 feet (8.4 meters)
- Wingspan: 43.7 feet (13.3 meters)
- Height: 9.2 feet (2.8 meters)
- Weight:
- Empty weight: 4,800 pounds (2,177 kilograms)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 7,200 pounds (3,266 kilograms)
- Engines:
- Type: Two Lycoming GSO-480 engines
- Thrust: Each engine produces 250 horsepower (186 kilowatts)
- Fuel efficiency: The F-406 has a fuel consumption rate of approximately 30 gallons per hour
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: 240 mph (386 kilometers per hour)
- Range: Up to 1,500 miles (2,414 kilometers) with a payload of 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms)
- Cruising altitude: 10,000 feet (3,048 meters)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: The F-406 can accommodate up to 12 passengers
- Cargo: It has a maximum cargo capacity of 2,500 pounds (1,136 kilograms)
- Crew: The aircraft requires a crew of two pilots
Design and Features
The Cessna F-406 features a unique design that sets it apart from other commercial aircraft. Its high-wing configuration allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo, while its twin-engine setup provides added reliability and performance.
History and Development
The development of the Cessna F-406 began in the early 1960s as a response to growing demand for commercial aircraft that could efficiently transport small packages and light cargo. Key milestones include:
- First flight: The F-406 made its maiden flight on October 30, 1962
- Certification: It received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 1963
- Entry into service: The aircraft entered commercial service in 1964
- Significant upgrades or variants:
- In 1970, Cessna introduced a stretched version of the F-406, known as the F-407
Operational Use
The Cessna F-406 is used by various airlines and organizations for cargo transport, passenger service, and other operational purposes. It has played a significant role in aviation history, including:
- Airlines or organizations that operate it: FedEx, UPS, and other courier services
- Popular routes or missions: Short-range cargo transport and charter flights
- Role in aviation history: The F-406 has been used for various military operations and humanitarian missions
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the Cessna F-406:
- Unique design choices: The aircraft's high-wing configuration allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo
- Famous flights or events: The F-406 was used for a record-breaking flight around the world in 1969
- Pop culture appearances:
- The aircraft has appeared in several films, including "Airport" (1970) and "The Towering Inferno" (1974)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Cessna F-406 unique?
The F-406's high-wing configuration, twin-engine setup, and cargo capacity make it a versatile aircraft for commercial use.
How much does the Cessna F-406 cost?
The estimated cost of the F-406 ranges from $500,000 to $1 million, depending on the configuration and customization.
What is the range of the Cessna F-406?
The aircraft has a maximum range of 1,500 miles (2,414 kilometers) with a payload of 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms).
Which airlines operate the Cessna F-406?
FedEx, UPS, and other courier services operate the F-406 for cargo transport and charter flights.
Has the Cessna F-406 been used in any notable events or missions?
Yes, the F-406 has been used for various military operations and humanitarian missions. It was also used for a record-breaking flight around the world in 1969.
