General Product Description
Our ModelBuffs Aero Commander 680FL Model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 8-10 weeks from placement of order.
The Aero Commander 680FL Model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.
If you require we can also make the Aero Commander 680FL Model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.
The Aero Commander 680FL: A Pioneering Light Twin Aircraft
The Aero Commander 680FL, part of the expansive Aero Commander family, stands as a testament to the evolution of light twin-engine aircraft. Developed by Aero Design and Engineering Company in the United States, the Commander series first took to the skies in the 1950s, revolutionizing private and executive aviation with its unique blend of performance, reliability, and comfort. The 680FL, introduced in the later iterations, brought advanced features and refinements, making it a noteworthy model in the series. This article delves into the general characteristics, technical specifications, and historical significance of the Aero Commander 680FL, shedding light on its enduring legacy in the aviation community.
General Characteristics
The Aero Commander 680FL, also known as the “Grand Commander,” is distinguished by its robust design, featuring a high-wing configuration that ensures stability and excellent visibility for pilots. Its spacious cabin, capable of accommodating up to eight passengers, was ahead of its time, offering comfort and luxury typically found in larger aircraft. The aircraft’s aesthetic appeal, combined with its operational efficiency, made it a popular choice among corporate clients, government officials, and aviation enthusiasts.
Technical Specifications
Powered by two Lycoming GSO-480 supercharged engines, the 680FL boasts a horsepower rating that significantly enhances its performance metrics. With a maximum cruising speed of approximately 250 mph and a range exceeding 1,500 miles, the 680FL competes favorably with other aircraft in its class. Its operational ceiling of over 25,000 feet allows for flexibility in flight planning, especially in avoiding adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, the aircraft’s sturdy construction and reliable engines contribute to its safety record, reassuring pilots and passengers alike.
Performance Highlights:
- Engines: Two Lycoming GSO-480, supercharged, producing significant horsepower.
- Cruise Speed: Approximately 250 mph.
- Range: Over 1,500 miles.
- Service Ceiling: Above 25,000 feet.
- Passenger Capacity: Up to eight passengers in a spacious cabin.
Historical Significance
The Aero Commander 680FL played a pivotal role in setting standards for future light twin-engine aircraft. Its introduction during the mid-20th century coincided with a growing demand for reliable and efficient private aircraft, capable of meeting the needs of the burgeoning corporate and executive travel market. The 680FL’s success paved the way for the development of more advanced models within the Commander series, each iteration incorporating lessons learned from its predecessors.
Moreover, the 680FL has left an indelible mark on the aviation community, cherished by pilots for its handling characteristics and by passengers for its comfort. It has also served various roles beyond corporate transport, including air ambulance, cargo, and even military applications, showcasing its versatility.
Conclusion
The Aero Commander 680FL remains a symbol of innovation and excellence in the field of light twin-engine aircraft. Its contributions to aviation are manifold, influencing the design and development of subsequent generations of aircraft. For enthusiasts, collectors, and aviators, the 680FL is not just a means of transportation but a piece of aviation history, embodying the spirit of an era when the sky became truly accessible to the private sector. Whether displayed in museums, used in flight schools, or cherished by private owners, the Aero Commander 680FL continues to inspire admiration and respect for its significant role in aviation history.
Variants
Aero Commander +L.3805+.
Prototype, one built.
+Aero Commander 520+.
First production version, a developed L.3805 with taller fin and larger cabin with two 260hp Lycoming GO-435-C engines, 150 built.
+Aero Commander 560+.
Model 520 with swept tail, increased take-off weight, seven seats and more powerful engines (two Lycoming GO-480B engines) and refined wing, 80 built.
+Aero Commander 560A+.
New undercarriage, stretched fuselage and other numerous refinements, 99 built.
+Aero Commander 560E+.
Larger wings and greater payload, 93 built.
+Aero Commander 360+.
Lightened version of the 560E with four seats and two 180hp engines, one built.
+Aero Commander 500+.
Economy version introduced in 1958, a 560E with 250hp Lycoming O-540-A engines, 101 built.
+Aero Commander 500A+.
First Aero Commander model – new nacelles to house fuel-injected engines, 99 built.
Aero Commander +500B+.
560E with fuel injected engines Lycoming IO-540 engines, 217 built.
Aero Commander +500U+./+Shrike Commander+.
500B with pointed nose and squared off tail, two 290hp Lycoming IO-540 engines, replaced 500A, 500B, 560F and 680F, 56 built.
Aero Commander +680 Super+.
Development of 560A with supercharged 340hp Lycoming GSO-480-A engines and increased fuel capacity, 254 built.
Aero Commander +680E+.
Lightened 560E and 560A type undercarriage, 100 built.
Aero Commander +680F+.
680E with new undercarriage and supercharged, fuel-injected Lycoming IGSO-540 engines and new nacelles, 126 built.
Aero Commander +680PF+.
Pressurized version modified from 680F, 26 built.
Aero Commander +680FL+. Grand Commander
680F with stretched fuselage and larger tail, 157 built. After 1967 known as the Courser Commander.
Aero Commander 680FL/P Grand Commander
Pressurized version of 680FL, 37 built.
Aero Commander +680T Turbo Commander+.
680FL/P with Garrett TPE331-43 turboprop engines, 56 built.
Aero Commander +680V+. Turbo Commander
680T with increased take off weight and slightly improved cargo capacity, 36 built.
Aero Commander +680W Turbo II+. Commander
680V with pointed nose. squared off fin, one panoramic and two small cabin windows and weather radar, 46 built.
+Rockwell 681 Hawk Commander+.
680W with improved pressurisation, air conditioning system and nose, 43 built.
Rockwell +681B+. Turbo Commander
Marketing designation for economy version of the 681, 29 built.
+Rockwell 685+. Commander
690 powered by two 435hp Continental GTSIO-520K piston engines, 66 built.
Commander +690+.
+681+. with new wing centre section and engines moved further outboard, two AirResearch TPE331-5-521 turboporops, 79 built.
Commander 690A
690 with changed flightdeck layout and increased pressurisation, 245 built.
Commander 690B
+690A+. with improved soundproofing and internal lavatory, 217 built.
+690C+. Jetprop840
+690B+. with increased wingspan, wet wing fuel tanks and winglets, two 840shp TPE331-5-254K turboprops, 136 built.
+690D+. Jetprop900
Similar to 690C with internal rear cabin extension, improved pressurisation and five square cabin windows, 42 built.
+695 Jetprop 980+.
Similar to 690C with 735shp TPE331-10-501K engines, 84 built.
+695A Jetprop 1000+.
690D with higher take off weight and more powerful TPE331-10-501K engines, 101 built.
+695B Jetprop 1000B+.
695A with minor changes, 6 built.
Aero Commander +720 AltiCruiser+.
Pressurized version of 680, 13 built.
+YL-26+.rarr; +YU-9A+.
+Aero Commander 520+. evaluated by the US Army, 3 built.
+YL-26A+.
Aero Commander 560 evaluated by the US Air Force, 1 built.
+L-26B+.rarr; +U-4A+.
Aero Commander 560A sold to the US Air Force, 14 built.
+L-26B+.rarr; +U-9B+.
Aero Commander 560A sold to the US Army, 1 built.
L-26Crarr; U-4B
Aero Commander 680 Super sold to the US Air Force, 2 built.
L-26Crarr; +U-9C+.
Aero Commander 680 Super sold to the US Army, 4 built.
RL-26Drarr; +RU-9D+.
Commander 680 for US Army aircraft fitted with SLAR (side looking airborne radar), two built.
NL-9Drarr; NU-9D
One built
Military operators
Belgium
+Belgian Air Force+. (1 x 560F)
Benin
Air Force
+Burkina Faso+.
Air Force
Colombia
+Ejercito+. (+EJC+.)
+Fuerza aerea de colombia+. (FAC)
Honduras
+Air Force of Honduras+.
Guatemala
+Air Force of Guatemala+.
Indonesia
+Indonesian Army+.
Iran
+Islamic Republic of Iran Navy+.
Republic of Korea
+South Korean Air Force+.
Mexico
+Mexican Air Force+.
+Mexican Navy+.
Thailand
+Royal Thai Air Force+.
Royal Thai Army
United States
+United States Air Force+.
+United States Army+.
+United States Coast Guard+.
Uruguay
+Uruguayan Air Force+.
South Vietnam
+Vietnam Air Force+.
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