Cessna 421C Golden Eagle
Piston • twin engine • Low Wing • Retractable gear
Range Visualization
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Mission Profile
241
KTAS
Cruise Speed
8
Occupants
1200
nm
Max Range
922
lbs
Wet Payload
About the Cessna 421C Golden Eagle
The Cessna 421C Golden Eagle is often cited as the pinnacle of piston-engine personal aviation. It is a large, pressurized, cabin-class twin that competes with entry-level turboprops. Distinguishable from the earlier 421B by its “wet wing” (lack of tip tanks) and trailing-link landing gear.
Key Features for GA Buyers:
- Cabin Comfort: Unrivaled in the piston market, the 421C uses geared engines. This allows the propellers to turn at a lower RPM (typically 1600-1700 in cruise) while the engine runs at higher power, significantly reducing cabin noise and vibration.
- Payload/Range: With a gross weight of 7,450 lbs, it offers a useful load often exceeding 2,200 lbs. It is one of the few piston twins that can carry a reasonable load over 1,000 nm.
- Trailing Link Gear: The C-model introduced trailing-link main landing gear, which smooths out less-than-perfect touchdowns, a favorite feature for owner-pilots.
Trade-offs:
- Geared Engines: The Continental GTSIO-520 engines are complex and expensive to overhaul (often exceeding $50k-$60k per side). They require specific pilot techniques (avoiding rapid throttle reductions) to prevent gearbox wear.
- Maintenance: As a pressurized aircraft with complex systems (hydraulic gear, geared engines, turbochargers), the annual maintenance budget is closer to a light jet than a light twin like a Baron.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Wingspan
- 44.5 ft
- Length
- 36.8 ft
- Height
- 11.5 ft
Weights
- Max Takeoff Weight
- 7,450 lbs
- Max Landing Weight
- 7,200 lbs
- Useful Load
- 2,200 lbs
- Fuel Capacity
- 213 gal
Performance
- Cruise Speed
- 241 KTAS
- Range
- 1200 NM
- Service Ceiling
- 30,200 ft
- Rate of Climb
- 1940 fpm
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