Cessna 414

[smails]

I am looking for some general info on C-414. Likes/dislikes, range with 4 guys and bags, runway perf.
Thanks in advance

 

[Say Again Over]

2 cents

It's a good 200 MPH pressurized aircraft, I enjoy the handling of the 400 series aircraft, it's not too good at carrying ice though. Don't get in a habit of letting the passengers close the door, double check nose baggage doors are closed and locked, has led to several accidents, the JB system air conditioning works much better than the Cessna engine driven system. If you lose an engine after Vr, look for a flat spot and land.

 

[msw]

I am looking for some general info on C-414. Likes/dislikes, range with 4 guys and bags, runway perf. Thanks in advance

Flew one for a couple years, '99 - '01 or so, can't remember numbers but it was a very nice flying and handling airplane. A bit range limited, as I recall, with four 200 lb adults and baggage. Climb performance when hot (and/or high) and heavy (at gross weight) was less than stellar; and as the other guy said, if you pick up some ice, it is not a great performer. I remember one time at 16,000 ft, less than gross weight, picking up some ice, tops were 18,000 ft, and I could not get it there! A slightly underpowered airplane in my opinion, but as long as you didn't load it up it and fly it in marginal conditions, it was fine. I thought it would make a great "family airplane" and even considered selling my Cherokee Six and buying one........ But I think we averaged spending about $25K a year on maintenance on the one I flew - which was about ten times my average annual maintenance expenses in my PA32 - and that put an end real quick to my thoughts of buying one.

 

[CrimsonEclipse]

I suggest a 414A, with the straight wings.
If it has the fowler flaps, you can NOT open the
door without hitting the flaps, so NEVER let the
pax open the door (and always use the check list)
RAM engine conversion is also a plus.

I would suggest a single engine turboprop.

CE