What Type of Plane is a Saab 340: A Comprehensive Guide

The Saab 340 is a Swedish twin-engine turboprop aircraft known for its efficiency and reliability. Designed and initially produced by Saab AB and Fairchild Aircraft, the Saab 340 was a crucial player in the regional airline market, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Saab 340, its features, production history, and ongoing usage in the aviation industry.

Design and Characteristics

The Saab 340 is a low-wing aircraft with a twin-engine turbo prop configuration. Its fuselage is made of aluminum, while the wing and empennage are produced by Fairchild Aircraft. The majority of the aircraft's construction, including the wing-mounted nacelles and final assembly, was completed in Linkoping, Sweden.

Originally designed to seat between 30 to 36 passengers, the Saab 340 was known for its efficient seating arrangement and low operating costs. As of 2018, there were approximately 240 operational Saab 340s in service with 34 different operators. The aircraft's design was refined over time, with later models such as the 340B Plus featuring modern interior designs and enhanced noise and vibration control systems.

Production and Improvements

The production of the Saab 340 began in earnest in the early 1980s. On January 25, 1983, the maiden flight of the Saab 340 marked the beginning of an era in regional airline operations. To meet growing demands, an enlarged derivative, the Saab 2000, was introduced in the mid-1990s, although sales were hampered due to competition within the regional aircraft market.

A significant improvement in the Saab 340B Plus model was the installation of active noise and vibration control systems, which reduced noise and vibration levels by approximately ten decibels during cruising flight. This feature was standard on the 340B Plus, along with extended wingtips and an updated interior design. The 340B Plus also featured a repositioned lavatory compartment, which increased cargo space.

While the Saab 340 was initially well-received, production faced financial challenges. Saab announced in 1997 that it would terminate production due to losses, but pledged to maintain support for existing customers. The final Saab 340 was delivered on June 8, 1999, after nearly 460 aircraft had been manufactured. Saab ultimately ceased all civil aircraft production in 2005.

Current Usage and Legacy

Despite the end of production, the Saab 340 continues to be used in regional air travel, particularly in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Airlines such as Regional Express use the aircraft for short-haul flights, demonstrating the Saab 340's reliability and efficiency in operation.

The legacy of the Saab 340 includes its role as a key player in the regional airline market and its innovative features. While no longer in production, the aircraft remains a valuable asset in many regional airline fleets, continuing to serve the needs of passengers and operators alike.

Conclusion

The Saab 340 is a quintessential example of a high-quality, efficient turboprop aircraft. Its design, production history, and current usage make it a noteworthy subject in aviation history. If you're interested in learning more about the Saab 340 or regional turboprop aircraft, continue exploring the resources available online and in aviation publications.