Beechcraft B55 Baron: A Pilot's Guide
The Beechcraft B55 Baron is a twin-engine piston aircraft that has captured the hearts of many pilots since its introduction. Known for its reliability, performance, and classic design, the B55 Baron is a staple in the world of light twin aircraft. This article delves into its history, specifications, performance, and avionics to provide a comprehensive overview for aviation enthusiasts.
History of the Beechcraft B55 Baron
The Beechcraft B55 Baron was introduced in 1964 as an evolution of the original Baron model, which debuted in 1961. Designed to replace the Model 95 Travel Air, the Baron B55 featured a Bonanza fuselage with a conventional tail and was powered by two 260-HP Continental IO-470-L engines. This model quickly became popular due to its robust performance and handling characteristics.Over the years, the B55 underwent several refinements, including an increase in gross weight to 5,100 pounds and the addition of a longer nose for more baggage and avionics space. Production of the B55 continued until 1982, with a total of 1,954 units built, making it one of the most prolific models in the Baron series.
Specifications
The Beechcraft B55 Baron boasts impressive specifications that make it a versatile and capable aircraft. Here are some key details:
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Engines: Two Continental IO-470-L engines, each producing 260 HP
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 5,100 lbs
- Empty Weight: 3,236 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 100 gallons
- Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers plus 1 pilot
- Wing Span: 37 ft 10 in
- Length: 28 ft 0 in
- Cabin Dimensions: Height – 4 ft 2 in, Width – 3 ft 6 in, Length – 11 ft 9 in
Performance
The B55 Baron is known for its solid performance metrics, making it a reliable choice for various flying conditions. Here are some performance highlights:
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Best Cruise Speed: 184 KIAS
- Best Range: 739 NM
- Fuel Burn at 75% Power: 27.3 GPH
- Stall Speed: 73 KIAS
- Rate of Climb: 1,693 FPM
- Service Ceiling: 19,300 FT
- Takeoff Distance: 1,400 FT
- Landing Distance: 1,467 FT
Avionics
The avionics suite in the B55 Baron can vary significantly based on upgrades and owner preferences. Many B55 Barons have been modernized with advanced avionics systems to enhance safety and navigation. Common upgrades include GPS navigation, digital autopilots, and multifunction displays. However, the original models were equipped with basic avionics that were standard for the era.
Conclusion
The Beechcraft B55 Baron remains a beloved aircraft among pilots for its blend of performance, reliability, and classic design. Its rich history and robust specifications make it a versatile choice for both personal and business aviation. Whether you're flying for leisure or on a mission, the B55 Baron delivers a dependable and enjoyable flying experience.
Further refinements of the B55
Model years 1974 and up, they have a single fueling point in each wing. In 1977 corrosion proofing was improved. Beginning in 1978 the B55 would be produced with outboard fuel selectors.
The big-engine version arrived two years after the B55. The C55 Baron appeared in 1966 with a 12-inch longer fuselage and 285-HP Continental IO-520C engines. The “little Baron with the big engines” also was certified with a gross weight of 5300 pounds. The airplane was redesignated the D55 in 1968 and the E55 in 1970. It, too, was dropped from production in 1983, after 1201 were built, 451 Cs, 316 Ds and 434 Es.
1964-1965 B55 Baron Performance specifications
- Horsepower: 2 x 260 HP
- Best Cruise Speed: 196 KIAS
- Best Range (i): 763 NM
- Fuel Burn @ 75%: 27.3 GPH
- Stall Speed: 68 KIAS
- Rate of climb: 1,670 FPM
- Rate of climb (1 engine out): 320 FPM
- Ceiling: 19,700 FT
- Ceiling (1 engine out): 7,000 FT
- Takeoff distance: 910 FT
- Landing distance: 840 FT
- Takeoff distance over 50ft obstacle: 1,225 FT
- Landing distance over 50ft obstacle: 1,370 FT
Weights
- Gross Weight: 5,100 LBS
- Empty Weight: 3,075 LBS
- Fuel capacity: 112 GAL
1965-1977 B55 Baron Performance specifications
- Horsepower: 2 x 260 HP
- Best Cruise Speed: 196 KIAS
- Best Range (i): 763 NM
- Fuel Burn @ 75%: 27.3 GPH
- Stall Speed: 68 KIAS
- Rate of climb: 1,670 FPM
- Rate of climb (1 engine out): 320 FPM
- Ceiling: 19,700 FT
- Ceiling (1 engine out): 7,000 FT
- Takeoff distance: 910 FT
- Landing distance: 840 FT
- Takeoff distance over 50ft obstacle: 1,225 FT
- Landing distance over 50ft obstacle: 1,370 FT
Weights
- Gross Weight: 5,000 LBS
- Empty Weight: 3,075 LBS
- Fuel capacity: 112 GAL
1978-1982 B55 Baron Performance specifications
- Horsepower: 2 x 260 HP
- Best Cruise Speed: 184 KIAS
- Best Range (i): 739 NM
- Fuel Burn @ 75%: 27.3 GPH
- Stall Speed: 73 KIAS
- Rate of climb: 1,693 FPM
- Rate of climb (1 engine out): 397 FPM
- Ceiling: 19,300 FT
- Ceiling (1 engine out): 6,400 FT
- Takeoff distance: 1,400 FT
- Landing distance: 1,467 FT
- Takeoff distance over 50ft obstacle: 2,154 FT
- Landing distance over 50ft obstacle: 2,148 FT
Weights
- Gross Weight: 5,100 LBS
- Empty Weight: 3,236 LBS
- Fuel capacity: 100 GAL
