CESSNA 310 is a twin-engine, low-wing light aircraft developed by Cessna Aircraft Company. Introduced in the late 1950s, the 310 quickly became popular for both private and commercial use due to its versatility, performance, and reliability. It is known for its ability to carry both passengers and cargo efficiently, making it ideal for small air taxi operations, business flights, and personal travel.
Key Features of the Cessna 310:
- First Flight: January 3, 1953.
- Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company.
- Engine: The Cessna 310 is powered by two Continental IO-470 or Continental IO-520 engines, producing between 260 and 285 horsepower each, depending on the model.
- Capacity: The aircraft typically seats 4 to 6 passengers, including the pilot, depending on the configuration. It offers good cabin space for its class and is often used for small family flights or business travel.
- Cruising Speed: Around 200 knots (230 mph or 370 km/h).
- Range: Approximately 1,300 nautical miles (2,400 km), depending on the specific configuration, load, and conditions.
- Wingspan: 11.3 meters (37 feet 1 inch).
- Length: 9.75 meters (32 feet).
- Height: 3.6 meters (11 feet 10 inches).
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg).
- Service Ceiling: 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).
Design and Performance:
- Low-Wing Configuration: The Cessna 310 features a low-wing design, which provides better aerodynamics, increased stability, and easier access to the cabin compared to high-wing aircraft. The low-wing also improves the aircraft’s performance at higher speeds.
- Twin-Engine Design: The aircraft is powered by two engines, providing additional reliability and safety. The twin-engine configuration allows for better climb rates, improved performance in adverse conditions, and increased range compared to single-engine aircraft.
- Aerodynamics: The 310’s design incorporates laminar-flow wings, which are efficient at high speeds and help reduce drag. This contributes to the aircraft’s overall good fuel efficiency and high cruising speed.
- Versatile Performance: The Cessna 310 is known for its ability to operate efficiently across a wide range of conditions. It can perform well in both short takeoff and landing (STOL) environments and also has the ability to reach high altitudes.
Variants:
Over the years, the Cessna 310 has had several different variants and improvements:
- Cessna 310 (1954-1960): The original version of the Cessna 310, powered by two Continental O-470 engines producing 230 horsepower each. The aircraft offered good speed and range, making it a solid choice for private owners and business travelers.
- Cessna 310A (1961-1962): The A-model introduced a slightly more powerful engine and minor refinements to improve performance and stability.
- Cessna 310B (1962-1965): The B-model had further performance improvements and featured a redesigned fuselage and upgraded systems, which made it more suitable for business travel and general aviation.
- Cessna 310C (1965-1967): Introduced with more modern avionics and improved fuel capacity, making it more efficient for longer flights.
- Cessna 310D (1967-1970): This model saw the addition of more powerful Continental IO-520 engines, providing better overall performance.
- Cessna 310R (1970-1980): The R-model was equipped with Continental TSIO-520 engines and provided a more refined flying experience, with better avionics and a more luxurious interior. It was one of the most advanced models in the 310 series.
- Cessna 310P (1980s): The P-model incorporated several new features, including a redesigned cockpit with improved avionics and systems, along with better engine performance and upgraded landing gear systems.
Operational Uses:
The Cessna 310 has been used for a wide range of purposes, including:
- Private Aviation: Many private owners use the 310 for personal or recreational flying, with the aircraft providing a comfortable ride for short or medium-range trips.
- Business Aviation: The 310’s ability to carry passengers and small loads efficiently made it a popular choice for small business owners and executives who needed to travel on business trips or regional flights.
- Air Taxi Operations: Due to its reliability, the Cessna 310 was frequently used by air taxi operators for short-haul flights, especially in rural or remote areas. Its performance and range made it ideal for flights to smaller, less-developed airports or unpaved runways.
- Flight Training: The 310 has been used for advanced flight training, particularly for pilots transitioning to multi-engine aircraft or preparing for commercial pilot licenses.
- Aerial Survey and Photography: Its stable flight characteristics and large windows make the 310 an ideal platform for aerial surveying, photography, or mapping tasks.
- Cargo Transport: The Cessna 310 has been used for light cargo transport, particularly in remote regions where larger aircraft cannot operate.
Legacy and Popularity:
The Cessna 310 became one of Cessna’s most successful twin-engine aircraft, with over 5,000 units produced between the early 1950s and 1980s. Its durability, versatility, and performance have made it a popular aircraft for both private owners and commercial operators. Although production ceased in 1980, many Cessna 310s are still in service today, especially among general aviation pilots and smaller charter services.
The 310 has developed a reputation for being easy to fly, with stable flight characteristics and relatively low operating costs compared to larger twin-engine aircraft. It is often considered one of the most successful light twin-engine aircraft of its era.
Notable Characteristics:
- Reliability and Durability: The Cessna 310 is known for its solid construction and reliability, which have allowed it to remain a popular aircraft in general aviation for many years.
- Twin-Engine Safety: The Cessna 310’s twin-engine design provides extra safety in the event of an engine failure, which makes it a good choice for pilots operating in more remote areas or on longer flights.
- High Performance: With its powerful engines, the Cessna 310 is capable of high cruising speeds and good climb rates, making it a fast and efficient aircraft for both private and commercial use.
- Comfortable Cabin: The Cessna 310 offers a relatively spacious cabin with seating for up to six passengers. The interior is well-suited for longer flights and provides a more comfortable experience compared to smaller light aircraft.
Conclusion:
The Cessna 310 remains one of the most successful light twin-engine aircraft ever produced, offering excellent performance, versatility, and reliability. Although no longer in production, its popularity continues among vintage aircraft enthusiasts, private owners, flight schools, and commercial operators. The 310’s solid construction, twin-engine safety, and relatively low operating costs make it a beloved aircraft that has endured for decades in general aviation. Whether used for personal travel, flight training, or small commercial operations, the Cessna 310 has proven itself as a reliable workhorse.