Gaunty,
Got to agree that the C441 was a fine aeroplane. Operated a fine low time example back in 1982. However if you do have the funds then the new range of Cessna Citations deserves a close inspection. In 2002 I am fortunate enough to have one on line and the thrill I got in the C441 twenty years ago has returned in the form of a C560.
Forget the term crustacean. 435 knots at FL410 with a burn of 1100 lbs per hour is the norm. With two crew and 4300 lb of fuel there is enough capacity to shove 2,200 lbs in the cabin and baggage compartment. That is one tonne. On a typical flight we had ten passengers. With a 4,300 lb fuel load we departed a 1204 metre runway and flew 995 nm in 2hr 45 minutes against a slight head wind carrying normal reserves plus twenty minutes traffic holding. We still had the option to climb to FL450.
Fully equipped for gravel operations, EFIS, FMC and galley. Direct operating costs (Fuel, Spares, Maintenance, Enroute Charges and Landing Fees) come in less than $100/hour more than our B350. And about thirty cents per nautical mile cheaper.
The smile on my face is a fixture!
Think 21st century!
Edited to remove ambiguity.
[ 13 February 2002: Message edited by: dragchute ]</p>