Beechcraft Duke's design praised for power and performance since debut

The Beechcraft 60 Duke, a twin-engine fixed-wing aircraft developed by Beechcraft in the mid-1960s, gained popularity for its efficient design and powerful turbocharged engines. The aircraft made its first flight in December 1966 and entered the private aviation market in July 1968. It features a pressurized cabin accommodating up to six people, including the pilot, and is equipped with retractable tricycle landing gear.

A notable account from Casey Aviation, Inc. highlights the Duke's impressive takeoff performance: "Whenever I would takeoff in the Duke the people at my airport would stop and come see the airshow. The takeoff roll can be super-short…easily less than 1500′, and probably much less." This statement underscores the aircraft's ability to climb efficiently even under challenging conditions.

The Beechcraft 60 was designed to bridge the gap between two other models from Beechcraft: the Baron and Queen Air. The goal was to create a lightweight yet high-performing aircraft. The prototype of this model flew for the first time on December 29, 1966, and received FAA certification by February 1968.