Cessna 310

Cessna 310. The Cessna 310 is an American four-to-six seat, low-wing, twin-engined monoplane produced by Cessna between 1954 and 1980. It was the first twin-engine aircraft the company built after World War II and became a cornerstone of the general aviation market, renowned for its performance and distinctive design features. Its success helped establish Cessna's dominance in the light twin category and spawned several derivative models.

Design and development

The development of the aircraft was initiated in the early 1950s under the leadership of Cessna's engineering team, aiming to create a modern, high-performance personal and business aircraft. A key design feature was the use of two Continental O-470-B piston engines, mounted on the wings with streamlined NACA cowlings to reduce drag. The design incorporated a distinctive wingtip fuel tank configuration, which increased range and provided lateral stability, a feature that became a hallmark of the early models. The airframe utilized a combination of aluminum alloy construction and a retractable landing gear system, operated hydraulically. The Federal Aviation Administration awarded the aircraft its type certificate in 1954, clearing the way for production at Cessna's main facility in Wichita, Kansas.

Operational history

Upon its introduction in 1954, the aircraft quickly gained popularity among business executives, air taxi services, and private owners for its speed, reliability, and comfortable cabin. It saw extensive use across North America and was exported worldwide, becoming a common sight at airports from Europe to Australia. Several were utilized by the United States Air Force as the U-3A "Blue Canoe" for liaison and utility duties, while others served with state agencies like the California Highway Patrol. Its durability and performance ensured a long service life, with many remaining in active use for decades, supported by a robust network of maintenance providers and enthusiast groups like the Cessna 310 Owners Association.

Variants

* 310: Initial production model from 1954. * 310A: Introduced in 1957 with a dorsal fin. * 310B: 1959 model featuring a third side window. * 310C: Introduced in 1960 with more powerful engines. * 310D: 1961 model with a swept vertical fin. * 310F: 1962 variant with a longer nose. * 310G: 1963 model introducing optional Avco Lycoming engines. * 310I: 1964 variant with a one-piece windshield. * 310J: 1965 model with a revised instrument panel. * 310K: 1966 variant featuring a shorter landing gear. * 310L: 1967 model with increased gross weight. * 310M: 1968 variant. * 310N: 1969 model. * 310P: 1970 variant with a longer cabin. * 310Q: 1971 model featuring a "T" tail, later renamed the Cessna 320 Skynight. * 310R: Final production model from 1975 to 1980, with turbocharged engines.

Specifications (Cessna 310R)

{{Aircraft specs | ref={} | prime units?=imp | crew=1 | capacity=5 passengers | length ft=32 | length in=9 | span ft=39 | span in=11 | height ft=10 | height in=11 | wing area sq ft=175 | empty weight lb=3,365 | gross weight lb=5,500 | max takeoff weight lb= | fuel capacity= | more general= | eng1 number=2 | eng1 name=Continental | eng1 type=Turbocharged air-cooled flat-six | eng1 kw= | eng1 hp=285 | prop blade number=3 | prop name=Hartzell | prop type=constant-speed | max speed mph=237 | cruise speed mph=222 | stall speed mph=73 | range miles=1,300 | ferry range miles= | endurance= | service ceiling ft=25,000 | rate of climb ftmin=1,660 | wing loading lb/sqft= | more performance= }}

Operators

Primary operators have included countless general aviation individuals, flight schools, and air charter companies globally. Military and government operators have included the United States Air Force (as the U-3A), the Royal Canadian Air Force, the French Air Force, and various state police agencies such as the Texas Department of Public Safety. Many aircraft are now operated by private owners and are frequently seen at events organized by the Experimental Aircraft Association.

Accidents and incidents

Notable accidents include the 1964 crash in Nashville, Tennessee that claimed the life of singer Jim Reeves. In 1972, a crash near Unionville, Missouri resulted in the deaths of several political figures. The 1999 crash of a modified aircraft during the Reno Air Races was a high-profile incident. The National Transportation Safety Board has investigated numerous occurrences over the decades, with causes ranging from pilot error and icing conditions to mechanical failure.