During the 1970s, the world's commuter airline market began to evolve from the 20-seat class to larger and more comfortable cabins.

The Short 360 development was announced in 1980, with the prototype's first flight on 1 June 1981[2] and type certification awarded on 3 September 1981.

The first production Short 360 had its maiden flight on 19 August 1982[3] and entered service with Suburban Airlines (later merged with Allegheny Airlines/US Airways) in November 1982.

With a cruise speed about 215 knots (247 mph; 398 km/h), at an altitude of 10,000 feet (3,000 m; 1.9 mi), the unpressurized 360 was not the fastest turboprop in its market, but it offered acceptable performance at a reasonable price, combined with ease of service and maintainability.

[10] The Short 360 specifically proved very popular with the UK's regional airlines including the Isle of Man-based-Manx.

[citation needed] Current and previous operators have included: The Short 360 has been involved in 15 hull-loss accidents, resulting in the loss of 16 airframes.