Aero Commander
Lark Commander 180
The Lark Commander 180, introduced by Aero Commander in 1972, quickly became a benchmark for twin‑engine light transport aircraft. Developed from the earlier Lark series, the 180 variant featured a stretched fuselage, a higher‑performance 180‑horsepower Lycoming IO‑540 engine on each wing, and a maximum take‑off weight of 5,800 pounds. Its all‑metal construction, fully retractable landing gear, and a pressurized cabin for up to six passengers gave it a blend of speed, comfort, and operational flexibility that appealed to corporate owners, air‑medical services, and regional carriers.
Key design highlights include a laminar‑flow wing with slotted flaps that deliver a cruise speed of 210 knots, a fuel capacity of 300 gallons for a range exceeding 1,200 nautical miles, and advanced avionics that were among the first to integrate digital flight displays in the late 1970s. The Lark Commander 180’s reliability earned it an impressive 10,000‑hour service life with minimal maintenance.
In aviation history, the aircraft marked Aero Commander’s transition from rugged utility planes to sophisticated business transports, influencing later twin‑engine designs such as the Turbo Commander series. Its legacy endures in flight schools and private fleets that value its proven performance and economical operation.
Key design highlights include a laminar‑flow wing with slotted flaps that deliver a cruise speed of 210 knots, a fuel capacity of 300 gallons for a range exceeding 1,200 nautical miles, and advanced avionics that were among the first to integrate digital flight displays in the late 1970s. The Lark Commander 180’s reliability earned it an impressive 10,000‑hour service life with minimal maintenance.
In aviation history, the aircraft marked Aero Commander’s transition from rugged utility planes to sophisticated business transports, influencing later twin‑engine designs such as the Turbo Commander series. Its legacy endures in flight schools and private fleets that value its proven performance and economical operation.
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Classification
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Aero Commander
- Engine
- Lycoming O-360
- Wikidata ID
- Q33026514