BEECH 99 “AIRLINER”€

The Beechcraft 99 Airliner was the first turbine powered retractable-landing-gear aircraft to meet FAA approval for commuter air carrier service. First delivered in 1968, the Model 99 was powered by twin 550- shp Pratt & Whitney turboprops driving reversible propellers. The Beechcraft 99 cruises at more than 250 mph and pulls a gross load of 10,200 pounds or more. Introduced in 1969, the 99A Airliner housed 680-shp Pratt & Whitney free-shaft turbines flat rated at 550- shp. Except for the engines, the 99A is identical to the original 99. The 99B, announced in 1972, featured engineering improvements for increased reliability, maintainability, and passenger comfort. The ship has an air-conditioning unit as an option with its high-pressure continuous-flow oxygen system. Also, an optional cargo door and a cargo pod---the pod is installed beneath the fuselage---increase its cargo capability. Seating can be varied to suit specific needs. Production ceased in 1978, but renewed interest in turboprop aircraft and the subsequent rapid growth in the commuter airline field caused Beech to reinstate production of the 99 Airliner. Total production of the Beech 99 fell just shy of 700 aircraft, many of which are still operating throughout the world. The heritage of the 99 ultimately became the Beech 1900.