Cessna 404 Titan

Twin Piston· 27 globally registered

The Cessna 404 Titan is a twin-engine piston utility aircraft that Cessna built from 1975 to 1982 as a larger, more capable successor to the 402. Designed for cargo hauling, air ambulance work, and passenger charter in remote regions, the Titan featured a wider fuselage, stronger landing gear, and greater payload capacity than its predecessor. With seating for up to ten occupants and a maximum takeoff weight of 8,400 pounds, it carved out a niche among operators needing rugged performance on short strips where turbine economics didn't pencil out. The Titan's Continental GTSIO-520 engines delivered 375 horsepower each, giving it a cruise speed around 220 knots and a service ceiling of 26,000 feet, respectable for a piston twin of its era. Its sturdy construction and large cargo door made it popular with freight operators, medical evacuation services, and bush charter outfits in Australia, Canada, and Alaska. While never produced in large numbers (only about 380 were built), the 404 earned a reputation for reliability in demanding environments where maintenance infrastructure was sparse. Today the Titan remains in service primarily with small charter operators and freight haulers working remote routes where its combination of payload, short-field capability, and lower operating costs compared to turboprops still makes economic sense. The type has largely been supplanted by more modern turbine aircraft, but a loyal cadre of operators continues to fly the 404 in roles where its utilitarian design remains well-suited. SkyMeter has tracked 73 flights across 17 airframes and 8 operators, with SOUTH AERO INC the largest observed operator.