The Mitsubishi MU-2 is a high-wing, twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft with a pressurized cabin which first flew in 1963 and was Mitsubishi's first postwar design. It is considered one of Japan's most successful postwar designs. Production continued until 1986 and included a large number manufactured in the United States. Many are still in service with civilian operators. The type is also used by the Japan Air Self Defence Force.
The MU-2 and Biggles[]
In Biggles and the Blue Moon, Biggles and Algy spotted a light aircraft flying over Taihan which Mr P. Tong was using to drop a message to them. Biggles described the aircraft he saw as "one of the new series the Mitsubishi people are putting on the market". Since there was only one civil type developed by Mitsubishi during the time of the book, the aircraft in question can only be the MU-2.
Specifications[]
- Crew: 1 or 2 pilots
- Capacity: 4–12 passengers
- Length: 12.01 m (39 ft 5 in)
- Wingspan: 11.94 m (39 ft 2 in)
- Empty weight: 3,433 kg (7,570 lb)
- Max. takeoff weight: 5,250 kg (11,575 lb)
- Engines: 2 Garrett TPE331 turboprops, 579 kW (776 shp) each
- Maximum speed: 547 km/h (295 knots, 340 mph) at 4,575 m (15,000 ft) (max cruise)
- Cruise speed: 483 km/h (261 knots, 300 mph) at 7,620 m (28,000 ft) (econ cruise)
- Range: 2,334 km (1,259 nmi, 1,450 mi)
- Service ceiling: 9,020 m (29,600 ft)