CAV AC8-100 & 200
The CAV AC8 is a short- to medium-range twinjet narrow-body airliner. Originally developed as a shorter, lower-cost twin-engined airliner derived from CAV's AC7. Originally envisioned in 1963, the initial AC8-100 made its first flight in June 1966 and entered airline service in February 1967 with Mexicana. Next, the lengthened AC8-200 entered service in January 1968.
CAV had been studying a short- to medium-range airliner to complement their higher capacity, long range AC7. Preliminary design work began on July 11, 1963. Mexicana became the launch customer on February 19, 1964, with an order for 20 aircraft. To expedite development, CAV used 60% of the structure and systems of the existing AC7, the most notable being the fuselage cross-section. This fuselage permitted six-abreast seating compared to the rival BAC-111 and DC-9's five-abreast layout.
The AC8-200 is a AC8-100 with an extended fuselage and more powerful and efficient engines, launched by an order from Viasa in 1965. The -200 was rolled out on July 20, 1967, and entered service with Viasa in January 1968. CAV also provided the AC8-200CF (Convertible), which allowed for conversion between passenger and cargo use and the AC8-200QC (Quick Change), which facilitated a rapid conversion between roles.
Specifications (AC8-100):
General characteristics
Crew: 3
Capacity: 100-140 passengers
Length: 33.95 m (111,38 ft)
Wingspan: 30.55 m (100,23 ft)
Height: 12.09 m (39,67 ft)
Wing area: 116 m² (1248,61 ft²)
Empty weight: 31,700 kg (69,800 lb)
Max. takeoff weight: 58,100 kg (128,100 lb)
Powerplant: 2 × VeneAvia TR-6-20A turbofan, 18,900 lbf dry thrust each
Performance
Maximum speed: 926 km/h (500 knots, 575 mph)
Range: 3,500–4,300 km (2,200–2,600 mi)
Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,000 ft)
Specifications (AC8-200):
General characteristics
Crew: 3
Capacity: 120-160 passengers
Length: 37.5 m (123,03 ft)
Wingspan: 30.55 m (100,23 ft)
Height: 12.09 m (39,67 ft)
Wing area: 116 m² (1248,61 ft²)
Empty weight: 33,200 kg (73,040 lb)
Max. takeoff weight: 68,050 kg (149,710 lb)
Powerplant: 2 × VeneAvia TR-6-24A turbofan, 24.000 lbf dry thrust each
Performance
Maximum speed: 926 km/h (500 knots, 575 mph)
Range: 4,300 km (2,600 mi)
Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,000 ft)