The M35 Beechcraft Bonanza - The First Truly Modern High Performance Airplane
At a time when most other light airplanes were still being manufactured from wood and fabric, the 35 model came out as a new all metal aircraft.
It was the first modern high performance aircraft of its kind.
It was the first to feature a retractable landing gear, something we think of now as commonplace but back in the day was cutting edge.
One of the things that stands out about it is its V shaped tail, making it more efficient then other aircraft at the time.
Its V-tail also made it the most distinctive private airplane of its time.
The V shape of the tail caused a series of arguments about the safety of the airplane in the first few years.
A series of accidents caused some uproar and suspicion regarding the structural design.
However an in-depth study by Beechcraft showed the cause had nothing to do with the structural design, there were simply too many pilots running straight through thunderstorms.
Most people consider the older, twin engine propeller planes to be less maneuverable.
This simply isn't true.
There is little the propeller plane cant do that a more modern personal jet can do, except for attain the speed a jet engine gets.
Propeller planes are far, far cheaper than their jet engine counterparts, with the M35 worth about 45,000 as a common retail value.
They are cheaper on gas, to, but wont get you to your destination as quickly, so that something to take into account.
One of the first of its kind, it was the first to include square "high stability" wing tips, as well as long chord stabilizers.
The controls are simple, with a single throw over control yoke, with a dual control yoke as an optional modification.
In 1982 the V-tail shaped Bonanza aircraft were dropped from production.
And though they are not being manufactured anymore there are still more than 6,000 models in the air today.
Proving that there's nothing wrong with the unconventional structure.
The Beechcraft company has always been on the cutting edge of aerial design and innovation.
Even a plane 50 years old like the M35 still operates and handles like a dream, getting you where you need to go in a quick and reliable way.
The only drawback is the lack of luggage space, as it is a 4 seat airplane.
5 if you count the child seat at the rear which isn't suitable for adults.
However it's a great little plane If your using it for recreation, for aerial photography or taking a small group up in the air for a great time.