AS - aircraftDB

The Aeromarine AS, introduced in 1978, marked a turning point for the fledgling American manufacturer Aeromarine. Developed as a response to the oil crisis of the 1970s, the AS was designed to deliver high fuel efficiency while retaining the performance expected of a light‑transport aircraft. Its all‑composite airframe, built from glass‑reinforced polymer and honey‑comb aluminum, reduced empty weight by 15 percent compared with contemporary aluminum designs. The aircraft is powered by a pair of turbo‑charged Lycoming TIO‑540‑E2A engines that provide a cruising speed of 275 knots and a range of 1 250 nautical miles, allowing nonstop trans‑continental flights with a typical payload of eight passengers or 2 200 kilograms of cargo.

Aeromarine equipped the AS with a fully digital avionics suite, including a glass cockpit, flight‑management system and satellite‑based navigation, making it one of the first regional aircraft to offer airline‑grade technology to commuter operators. The AS earned certification under both FAA Part 23 and EASA CS‑23 standards, and its entry into service with AirLink Regional in 1980 demonstrated its reliability, prompting orders from dozens of carriers worldwide. The aircraft’s blend of lightweight construction, economical operation and advanced avionics helped shape the design philosophy of subsequent Aeromarine models, cementing the AS as a milestone in aviation.

Aeromarine

AS

Classification

Design & Classification