Developed in 1979 as a joint project between Saab Scania and U.S.-based Fairchild Industries, a prototype SF340 was launched on Jan. 25, 1983. Saab became the sole manufacturer of the 340 when Fairchild left the aircraft industry in 1985. After the success of the SF340, re-designated the 340A, Saab delivered the improved 340B in September 1989. While production of the 340B ceased in 1999, the aircraft is still in service, with 49 operators worldwide, and as of 2010 has completed over 10 million flights.
A turboprop aircraft, the 340B is powered by twin GE CT7-9B engines rated at 1,750 horsepower. Both engines are fitted with anti-icing and fire detection systems. The 340B has a top cruising speed of 283 knots with a maximum range of 611 nautical miles. The aircraft can operate at up to 25,000 feet while carrying a maximum payload of 7,500 pounds.
With room for two pilots and an observer, the 340B's cockpit contains a full avionics suite, including a Rockwell Collins APS-85 automatic flight-control system and APS-85 autopilot, a Hamilton Sundstrand Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS), and an integrated VHF Omnidirectional Ranger and Instrument Landing System (VOR / ILS). A weather radar, Lockheed Martin cockpit voice and data recorders, VHF communications unit, passenger address unit and Telephonics cabin interphone are all standard equipment.
When configured as a commuter aircraft, the 340B can accommodate 35 to 37 passengers in three-abreast seating. Cabins can also be outfitted for corporate use, as combined cargo and passenger aircraft, or in full-cargo configurations. As of 2010, Washington-based Saab Aircraft Leasing leases and customizes 340B aircraft for clients worldwide.
Saab 340Bs are still in service as commuter aircraft, with 49 different airline operators. Several special-mission and military variants of the aircraft have also been developed, including the 340SAR-200, utilized by the Japanese Coast Guard for search and rescue operations. The Swedish Air Force uses modified 340Bs for airborne early-warning systems. Both the Swedish Defense Material Administration and the Argentine Air Force use cargo versions of the 340B for transport purposes.
