ac500s

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AC500S Piston Specifications and Charter Rates

The AC500S sets a new benchmark in the piston aircraft segment, blending remarkable efficiency and utility with a refined, contemporary design. This versatile twin-engine aircraft comfortably seats up to six passengers and offers a cruising speed of 202 knots over a range of approximately 842 nautical miles, making it ideal for both business and leisure flights. Its modern features and robust construction make it a trusted performer in private aviation.


Designed for pilots and travelers who prioritize flexibility and reliability, the AC500S excels in short-haul regional missions and remote airfields that are out of reach for larger jets. On this page, you'll find detailed specifications, cabin layouts, real-world range, indicative charter pricing, and essential information for charter clients considering this aircraft for their next mission.

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AC500S Overview

The AC500S is a high-performance twin-engine piston aircraft, sought after for its combination of speed, agility, and efficiency. With seating for up to six and a spacious baggage compartment, it’s a practical solution for regional travel, especially for those who require access to smaller runways. The aircraft’s advanced avionics and streamlined airframe maximize both safety and operational flexibility.


Its twin engines provide the redundancy and confidence needed for a wide variety of missions, while the aircraft’s light weight and responsive handling make it a pleasure for pilots and a comfort for passengers. Versatility and value are the hallmarks of the AC500S, making it a mainstay in the piston charter market.


Owners and operators appreciate its low operating cost, ease of maintenance, and reliability—qualities that translate into excellent charter value for business and leisure flyers alike. With its ability to reach a multitude of airfields and deliver a smooth ride every time, the AC500S stands out as a smart investment for private travel.

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AC500S Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Piston

Passenger capacity:

Up to 5 (typical), 6 maximum

Crew:

1 pilot

Range:

Approximately 842 nautical miles (around 969 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

202 knots (about 232 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 178 knots

Service ceiling:

20000 fee

Engines:

Two Lycoming IO-540 engines

Thrust:

Roughly 300 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 1915 feet

Landing distance:

About 3837 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 27 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 32 cubic feet

First delivered:

1970s

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The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

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AC500S Range and Performance

With a range of 842 nautical miles, the AC500S is perfectly suited for regional hops, connecting city pairs such as Los Angeles to Denver, Dallas to Atlanta, or London to Zurich without the need for a refueling stop. This capability allows for seamless day trips and efficient routing to secondary airports that are closer to your final destination. | Although it excels on flights under three hours, the AC500S’s 202-knot cruise makes it among the fastest piston twins available, minimizing travel time for both business and private flyers. Its short takeoff and landing requirements enable access to many airfields off limits to larger aircraft, offering maximum flexibility for last-minute or remote itineraries. | The aircraft’s efficient engines and robust build ensure reliable performance in a variety of weather and runway conditions. For passengers and pilots alike, this means peace of mind and swift, comfortable travel on every mission.

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AC500S Cabin Experience and Interior

The AC500S’s cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort on shorter flights, with seating for up to six in a club and forward-facing arrangement. Large windows provide ample natural light, and the interior is finished with high-quality materials and ergonomic seating. | Passengers enjoy a quiet ride thanks to soundproofing, and there is sufficient space to relax or work in flight. A generous baggage compartment accommodates suitcases, golf clubs, or weekend gear for the whole group. | While not as spacious as a jet, the AC500S makes regional journeys convenient and enjoyable, with easy boarding, in-flight refreshments, and a bright, welcoming atmosphere that stands out among piston aircraft.

AC500S Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a AC500S typically runs in the range of $1100 to $1500 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

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It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

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Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a AC500S down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the AC500S?

The AC500S fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

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Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

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Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

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Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

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Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

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Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

The AC500S is an optimal choice for short to mid-range trips, especially when access to smaller or less-served airports is a priority. Its efficiency and cost-effectiveness make it ideal for business teams, families, and leisure travelers looking for direct, regional travel without the expense of larger aircraft.

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How the AC500S Compares to Other Piston

The AC500S builds on the renowned legacy of the Commander aircraft family, a line celebrated for its rugged dependability and pilot-friendly handling since the 1950s. The 500S model evolved to address the needs of both private owners and commercial operators, offering upgraded avionics, increased payload, and improved aerodynamics over earlier models.


Notable advancements include updated engines and a refined airframe, making the AC500S more efficient and comfortable than its predecessors. Its versatility and proven safety record have made it a go-to choice for charter operations worldwide, standing out as a leader in the piston twin segment.


Today, the AC500S remains in strong demand, thanks to its robust construction, economical operation, and wide support network. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted, purpose-built aircraft in private aviation.

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AC500S History and Background

The AC500S builds on the renowned legacy of the Commander aircraft family, a line celebrated for its rugged dependability and pilot-friendly handling since the 1950s. The 500S model evolved to address the needs of both private owners and commercial operators, offering upgraded avionics, increased payload, and improved aerodynamics over earlier models.


Notable advancements include updated engines and a refined airframe, making the AC500S more efficient and comfortable than its predecessors. Its versatility and proven safety record have made it a go-to choice for charter operations worldwide, standing out as a leader in the piston twin segment.


Today, the AC500S remains in strong demand, thanks to its robust construction, economical operation, and wide support network. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted, purpose-built aircraft in private aviation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the AC500S Carry?

The AC500S typically seats five passengers in a comfortable club and forward-facing configuration, with a maximum capacity of six. The flexible layout accommodates both business and leisure travelers and is ideal for regional outings.

What Is the Range of the AC500S?

The AC500S has a range of approximately 842 nautical miles, or roughly 969 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the AC500S Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 202 knots (about 232 mph), with a long-range cruise near 178 knots. The aircraft's 20000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a AC500S?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $1100 and $1500 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker AC500S Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes, the AC500S is designed for comfort on regional flights. The cabin features ergonomic seating, ample window light, and quiet operation thanks to advanced soundproofing. Passengers enjoy easy access and generous baggage space for luggage or sports equipment.

Is the AC500S Good for Transcontinental Flights?

For most regional flights within the aircraft’s range, yes. The AC500S can operate out of many smaller airports, and its efficiency makes it a practical option for quick, direct journeys, though longer legs may require a fuel stop depending on load and weather.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including AC500S jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the AC500S, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

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