Saab 340

The Saab 340 is a twin‑engine turboprop regional airliner developed by Saab Group in collaboration with Swedish manufacturer Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (SAAB) during the early 1980s. First rolled out in 1983 and certified in 1984, the aircraft entered commercial service in 1985, quickly becoming a popular choice for short‑haul airlines in Europe, North America and Asia. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127 engines, the 340 can carry 30 to 36 passengers at a cruising speed of about 470 km/h and a range of roughly 1,500 km, making it ideal for routes between secondary airports. Its pressurised, all‑metal airframe incorporates advanced avionics, a low‑drag wing design, and a quiet, fuel‑efficient propulsion system that reduced operating costs compared with piston‑engine rivals. Over 400 units were built before production ended in 1999, and many remain in service with charter operators, cargo converters and military users for surveillance and transport missions. The Saab 340's reliability, economical performance and versatility helped shape the modern regional airline market, demonstrating that turboprop aircraft could compete with jets on short routes while offering lower emissions and runway‑length flexibility. These attributes have kept the type relevant throughout the industry.

Saab Group

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