AERO COMMANDER

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Bidgee

The Aero Commander refers to a family of twin-engine piston and turboprop aircraft originally developed by the Aero Design and Engineering Company, founded in 1944. Renamed the Aero Commander company in 1950, it was later absorbed by Rockwell International and Gulfstream Aerospace before ceasing aircraft production in 1986. Known for their twin-engine safety, comfort, and high-wing design, Aero Commander aircraft served as utility, corporate, and personal transport aircraft and continue to be used for special missions, such as aerial surveying by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

This video shows a flight and interview with a pilot of the Twin Commander 500:

YouTube• Flying Doodles

1m

Key Characteristics

• High-wing design: The high-wing configuration provides excellent stability and is a signature feature of Aero Commander aircraft.
• Twin-engine safety: The twin-engine layout was a primary design goal, emphasizing safety and reliability for the passengers and crew.
• Comfort and stability: Aero Commanders are known for their comfortable ride and stable flight characteristics, making them suitable for long flights and instrument flying.

History and Evolution

• Formation: The company was founded by Rufus Travis Amis and George Thompson Pew in 1944, initially as the Aero Design and Engineering Company.
• Corporate Shifts: The company evolved, with its name changing to Aero Commander in 1950 and later becoming a division of Rockwell International and Gulfstream Aerospace.
• Production End: The company ceased aircraft production in 1986.

Modern Applications

• Aerial Survey: Many Aero Commander aircraft, particularly the Rockwell Aero Commander (AC-500S), are used as aerial survey platforms for high-resolution photography, snow/soil moisture measurements, and biological studies.
• Historical Significance: The Aero Commander aircraft has a historical presence, with some models like the Twin Commander 500S being over 40 years old.

This video explains how to revive a historic Aero Commander:

YouTube• AOPA: Your Freedom to Fly

58s