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Shorts SD3-30

Shorts SD3-30 G-BDBS in the Ulster Aviation Society hangar

The Shorts SD3-30 is a well-known regional passenger aircraft that was developed and  manufactured by Short Brothers in Belfast, Northern Ireland, from the late 1970s to the early 1990s.

 

It was designed to be a reliable and efficient aircraft for regional airline routes, and its introduction marked a significant milestone in aviation history. Visitors to the Ulster Aviation Society (UAS) can experience this iconic aircraft first-hand, up close inside and out, and learn about its rich history.

The SD3-30 was developed to meet the increasing demand for regional air travel, offering a comfortable and efficient option for short-haul flights. Its unique design, with two turboprop engines mounted on the wings, provided the aircraft with excellent fuel efficiency and reliability.

 

Its spacious cabin could accommodate up to 30 passengers, making it an ideal choice for regional airlines.

Nose section of Shorts SD3-30 G-BDBS in the Ulster Aviation Society hangar

The aircraft quickly became a popular choice for regional airlines, with its efficient operation and reliability making it a staple of the regional airline industry. Its unique design and excellent performance made it a valuable asset for airlines operating in remote or challenging environments.

The SD3-30's versatility and reliability made it a popular choice for airlines worldwide, used by several airlines in Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as by several military organisations for transport and surveillance duties.

 

Its ability to operate from short runways and challenging environments made it a popular choice for regional airlines, particularly in areas where access by road or rail was limited.
 

The Society's commitment to preserving this aircraft is a testament to its importance and contribution to aviation technology.

 

Visitors can learn about the aircraft's impressive capabilities, explore its features, and appreciate the hard work and innovation that went into its design and construction.

In conclusion, the Shorts SD3-30 passenger aircraft was a remarkable example of aviation technology that played an important role in regional air travel.

 

Its unique design, fuel efficiency, and reliability made it a popular choice for regional airlines worldwide, with its spacious cabin and ability to operate from short runways making it an ideal option for remote or challenging environments.

The Ulster Aviation Society's on-going preservation of the Shorts SD3-30 is a valuable contribution to aviation history, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore this iconic aircraft up close.

Manufacturer: Shorts

Model: SD3-30 / SD-330

Registration: G-BDBS

UAS Location: Hangar 1

Maximum Speed:  220 mph at 10,000 ft

Cruise Speed: 180 mph

Range: 1,053 miles

Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-45-R turboprop, 893 kW (1,198 shp) each

Propellors: 5-bladed Hartzell constant-speed

Service Ceiling: 20,000 ft

Length & Height17.69m x 4.95m

Wing Span: 22.76m

Crew: 2 x pilots; 1 x flight attendant

Production: 1976 - 1992
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