Short 360

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.

The prototype at the 1982 Farnborough Airshow
Nightexpress freighter with windows plugged
Air Cargo Carriers is the largest operator with 17 aircraft
Air Cargo Carriers Flight 1290 damage caused by brake fire.
The wrecked tail section of N380MQ
Front view showing the square cross section and braced wing
Three-abreast seating of aircraft