YS-11A-500

The YS‑11A‑500 is a refined version of the classic YS‑11 twin‑engine turboprop, produced by Nihon Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (NAMC) in the early 1970s. Developed as the final evolution of Japan’s first post‑war indigenous airliner, the A‑500 incorporated a strengthened airframe, upgraded Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑34 engines delivering 1 200 shp each, and modern avionics suited for regional airline operations. First delivered to Japan Air Commuter in 1974, the type quickly found customers across Asia, serving routes that required short‑field performance and high reliability on modest runways. Its high‑wing configuration, robust fixed landing gear, and spacious 32‑seat cabin made it ideal for remote island services and cargo conversions. The YS‑11A‑500 also featured improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels, meeting emerging ICAO standards of the era. Although production ceased in 1977 after only 96 units, the aircraft’s legacy endures, representing a milestone in Japanese aerospace independence and demonstrating the viability of domestically designed commuter transport. Today, several A‑500s remain in museum collections and occasional charter service, preserving a unique chapter of aviation history. Its continued affection among pilots and enthusiasts underscores the YS‑11A‑500’s enduring contribution to regional connectivity and aircraft design.