The Fastest Turboprop Aircraft: Piaggio P.180 Avanti II and Beyond
When it comes to the fastest turboprop aircraft, the Piaggio P.180 Avanti II takes the crown with its impressive performance. This aircraft boasts a maximum cruise speed of approximately 402 knots, which translates to about 462 mph or 743 km/h. Its unique design features a pusher propeller configuration and a wing-mounted engine layout, contributing significantly to its high speed and efficiency.
Another notable contender is the ATR 72-600, albeit much slower in comparison with a cruise speed of around 275 knots or 316 mph or 509 km/h. However, both the Avanti II and ATR 72 represent significant advancements in turboprop technology, showcasing the potential for these aircraft to reach exceptional speeds and performance.
A Historical Perspective on the Fastest Turboprop Aircraft
Considering the historical context, the Tu-95 Bear holds the record for the fastest production turboprop aircraft. Although it never set an official FIA record, the Tu-114 previously held the record for a long time, and the Tu-95 Bear itself has been tracked at 606 mph. This is impressive, given that the Bear operates at a top speed of 576 mph in its record-setting configuration, which was likely specially prepped for the attempt. The production model is estimated to be around 100 mph slower.
Jet-Assisted Turboprops: A Brief Look at Air Force Performance
The F-84 Thunderchief presents an interesting case as it was initially a jet-assisted turboprop aircraft. Some sources claim that the F-84 managed a maximum speed of 576 mph, though it's important to note that this was not a pure turboprop performance but supported by jet propulsion. In experimental configurations, the F-88B was recorded to reach Mach 1.2 in a dive, highlighting the potential of turbofans and turboprops in combination.
Comparison with Piston Engine Propellor Planes
The performance of turboprop aircraft compared to piston engine propeller planes showcases significant advancements in technology. A heavily modified Bearcat, known as the "Rare Bear," reaches higher speeds, pushing the boundaries of traditional propeller design.
Typically, small and light propeller planes have a top speed of around 130-173 knots, which is roughly 150-200 mph or 240-320 km/h. In contrast, larger and more powerful propeller planes can achieve speeds up to 347-434 knots, or 400-500 mph or 640-800 km/h. Notable models include the Cessna 172 and the Cessna 408 SkyCourier, which demonstrates the varying performance based on the aircraft's size and engine power.
Conclusion
The race for the fastest turboprop aircraft continues to push the envelope of what is possible, with the Piaggio P.180 Avanti II leading the pack. Historical efforts with aircraft like the Tu-95 Bear and experimental configurations of the F-84 Thunderchief and F-88B also contribute to the ongoing advancements in turboprop technology. As technology evolves, we can expect even more impressive performance from these incredible machines.