CAV AC7-400
Studies into a higher capacity version of the AC7 were instigated by the development of the VA-1000-20, originally a more conservative 4 meter strech with capacity for 212 passengers was considered, but when the final VA-1000-20 design was shown publicly it was realized by CAV's development team that a larger aircraft was needed and as a result the 4 meter stretched design was dropped in favour of the more radical 9 meter stretch althought the 4 meter streched fuselage would later be used for the AC7-500.
Compared to the AC7-300 the 400 featured a 9m fuselage stretch, more powerful TR-6-25A engines, higher weights and encreased wingspan. The aerodynamic improvements developed as a result of the original AC7 flight test programme were incorporated. The result was a superb aircraft which sacrificed some of the AC7-300's airfield performance for greater efficiency including seat mile operating costs. It flew for the first time in June 1964 and Viasa inaugurated services between Caracas and Miami in February 1965. It was soon used all over Viasa's network and proved to be a popular aircraft with passengers.
Specifications (AC7-400):
General characteristics:
Crew: 3
Capacity: 248-266 passengers
Length: 55.13 m (180,87 ft)
Wingspan: 45.24 m (148,39 ft)
Height: 13.40 m (43,96 ft)
Wing area: 271.9 m² (2926,71 ft²)
Empty weight: 85,600 kg (188715,56 lb)
Max. takeoff weight: 164,200 kg (361998,77 lb)
Powerplant: 4 × VeneAvia TR-6-25A turbofan, 26,000 lbf dry thrust each
Fuel: 90,300 L
Performance:
Maximum speed: 960 km/h (596,2mph /518,36knot)
Range: 11,400 km (7083,63 mi)
Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,400 ft)