Cessna 402A
Cessna · United States · first flew 1967 · light aircraft
The Cessna 402A is the first production variant of the Cessna 402, a light twin-engine aircraft designed for the commuter airline and business market with a stretched fuselage compared to the 401. It offered improved passenger capacity and cargo flexibility.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 11.09 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Light twin commuter and business aircraft
- Low wing, retractable tricycle undercarriage
- Continental TSIO-520 engines, longer cabin than 401
Very similar to the 401 but with a slightly longer fuselage and larger cabin windows; the twin Continental engines and retractable gear are the primary identification features for the 400-series family.
Specifications
- The Cessna 402A has a length of 11.09 m (36 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 12.15 m (40 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 397 km/h (247 mph).
- Typical crew: 1–2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Cessna introduced the 402 alongside the 401 in 1967, and the 402A followed in 1968 with refinements. The 402 series proved commercially successful, evolving through the 402B and 402C variants and becoming a staple of regional and island-hopper commuter operations worldwide.
Variants
The 402A was followed by the 402B with further improvements and the 402C with tip tanks and other refinements; the 402 family also spawned the Businessliner interior package.
Where you'll see it
Widely used by commuter airlines, air taxi operators, and private owners across the Americas, Caribbean, Pacific islands, and elsewhere; many remain in active service.
Related aircraft
- Cessna 401A
- Cessna O-2A Skymaster
- Cessna 177 Cardinal
- Cessna 207 Skywagon
- Aeritalia/Aermacchi AM-3
- Beagle Pup
- Bellanca Viking
- Glasflügel 201 Standard Libelle
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