Saab Sf 340

Twin Turboprop· 73 globally registered

The Saab 340 is a Swedish twin-turboprop regional airliner that became one of the most successful commuter aircraft of the 1980s and 1990s. Developed by Saab and Fairchild (hence the SF designation), the type first flew in 1983 and entered service in 1984, filling the 30-36 seat niche for short-haul routes where jets were uneconomical. Powered by two General Electric CT7 turboprops, the 340 was designed for rugged reliability and short-field performance, making it ideal for regional operations in challenging environments from the Australian outback to Scandinavian winters. The aircraft's high wing and sturdy landing gear allowed operations from unpaved strips, while its pressurized cabin provided jet-like comfort at altitudes up to 25,000 feet. Over 450 were built before production ended in 1999, and the type remains popular in regional service worldwide, particularly in Australia where it serves remote communities. The 340's reputation for dispatch reliability and low operating costs has given it remarkable longevity in an era when many turboprops have been retired in favor of regional jets. SkyMeter has tracked 1,070 flights across 90 airframes and 16 operators spanning routes, with REGIONAL EXPRESS PTY LTD the largest observed operator.