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The Saab 340 proved to be a highly popular regional airliner that helped to pioneer the 30 seat turboprop class but slow sales in the late 1990s has forced Saab to cease production.
In 1979 SaabScania of Sweden and Fairchild in the USA reached an agreement to conduct joint feasibility and development studies on a 30 to 40 seat commuter airliner, which resulted in the SF340 design, launched in September 1980, and aimed at capturing 25 to 30% of the market. Within the 65/35 Saab-Fairchild partnership split Saab was responsible for the fuselage, fin and final assembly, while Fairchild was responsible for the wings, engine nacelles and empennage. The two companies selected the General Electric CT7 (a commercial development of the T700 which powers Sikorsky's S70 series of military helicopters) to power the new airliner.
From November 1 1985 Saab assumed overall responsibility for the SF340 following Fairchild's decision to divest itself of its aircraft divisions. Saab initially retained the SF340 designation but later changed it to 340A. The first improved development of the Saab 340 was the 340B. More powerful engines improved hot and high performance, while other changes included a greater span tailplane, a higher max takeoff weight and better range. Deliveries began in September 1989.
The last development of the 340 was the 340B Plus, which introduced changes developed for the larger Saab 2000, including an improved cabin interior. The first 340B Plus was delivered in March 1994. Lack of sales and profitibility however forced Saab to cease 340 and 2000 production, with the lines winding up in 1998. |
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| Seating (normal) |
33 |
Max Takeoff (lbs) |
17,945 |
| Seating (maximum) |
37 |
Certified Ceiling (ft) |
25,000 |
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| Engines |
2 GE CT75A2 |
To (Sealevel, ISA Temp) (ft) |
4,692 |
| Output lbs ea. Flat Rating |
1750shp |
Landing Distance (ft) |
3,445 |
| Maximum Mach No. |
0.50 |
Max Range (fuel) (nm) |
2,145 |
| High Speed Cruise (Kts) |
282 |
Max Range (payload) (nm) |
820 |
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| Flight Time 300nm |
- |
Flight Time 1000nm |
- |
| Flight Time 600nm |
- |
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| External |
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Internal |
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| Length (ft) |
64.70 |
Length (ft) |
34.10 |
| Height (ft) |
22.90 |
Height (ft) |
6.00 |
| Span (ft) |
70.30 |
Width: Max floor (ft) |
7.10 |
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