Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise Specifications & Booking
Overview of the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise is a twin-turboprop aircraft designed for commercial use, specifically for regional airlines and charter operators. Manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, it made its first flight in 1965 and entered service in 1967.
Technical Specifications
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise has the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions: Length - 23.45m (77ft), Wingspan - 22.83m (75ft), Height - 8.53m (28ft)
- Weight: Empty Weight - 10,800 kg (23,800 lbs), Maximum Takeoff Weight - 19,000 kg (41,890 lbs)
- Engines: 2 x Rolls-Royce Dart RDA6 turboprop engines, each producing 1,500 shp (1,100 kW), with a fuel efficiency of approximately 0.3 lb/hp-hr
- Performance: Maximum Speed - 315 km/h (196 mph), Range - 2,400 km (1,500 miles), Cruising Altitude - 7,620m (25,000 ft)
- Capacity: Passengers - 19-34, Cargo - 450 kg (992 lbs), Crew - 2
Design and Features
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise features a distinctive design with a cantilevered wing and a retractable undercarriage. It was one of the first commercial aircraft to incorporate a fly-by-wire system, which significantly improved safety and reduced pilot workload.
History and Development
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise has a rich history:
- First flight: April 1965
- Certification: December 1966
- Entry into service: March 1967 with All-Japan Airlines (now Japan Airlines)
- Significant upgrades and variants:
- MU-2B: Improved version with increased payload capacity and range
- MU-2C: Upgraded variant with more powerful engines and improved avionics
Operational Use
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise has been used in various operational scenarios:
- Airlines: Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (now ANA), and several regional carriers operated the MU-2 Marquise for domestic and international flights
- Military use: The MU-2 Marquise has been used by military organizations worldwide for training, surveillance, and transport missions
- Charter operations: The aircraft has also been used for charter flights, cargo transportation, and executive travel
Interesting Facts
Here are a few interesting facts about the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise:
- The MU-2 Marquise holds the record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe by a turboprop aircraft, achieved in 1968
- The aircraft has been used in various pop culture appearances, including films and television shows
- The MU-2 Marquise was one of the first commercial aircraft to incorporate a fly-by-wire system, which significantly improved safety and reduced pilot workload
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise unique?
The MU-2 Marquise is unique due to its twin-turboprop configuration, fly-by-wire system, and cantilevered wing design, which set it apart from other commercial aircraft of its era.
How much does the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise cost?
The estimated cost range for a used Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise is between $500,000 to $1.5 million, depending on the configuration, customization, and condition of the aircraft.
What is the range of the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise?
The MU-2 Marquise has a range of approximately 2,400 km (1,500 miles), making it suitable for regional and domestic flights.
Which airlines operate the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise?
Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (now ANA), and several regional carriers have operated the MU-2 Marquise in the past. Today, some charter operators and cargo companies continue to use the aircraft for their operations.
Is the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise still in production?
The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise is no longer in production, as it was discontinued by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in the 1990s. However, many of these aircraft remain in service today, and some are still being used for commercial and charter operations.
