The Cessna 340 was Cessna’s entry-level pressurized, turbocharged twin. Although it carries a 300-series number, it actually shares wing, landing gear and engines with the Cessna 414. The 340A is smaller than the 414, so it is thus an economy version of the 414 with less payload capacity and more speed.
The 340 was introduced in 1972. A pair of 310 hp Continental engines powers the 340A. A total of 350 Cessna 340s were built from 1972 to 1975 and 948 Cessna 340As were built from 1976 to 1984. The Cessna 340A differs from the 340 with an improved air-conditioning system, a slightly higher gross weight, and more powerful engines. Many of the 340's 285 hp Continental engines were modified to the 310 hp Continental during overhaul.
While Cessna made many enhancements to the 340A during its production run, the following are significant milestones:
1973 63-gallon auxiliary fuel system offered
1975 De-icing boots offered
1977 certification for flight into known icing (FIKI) offered
1984 Time between overhauls (TBO) increased from 1,400 hours to 1,600 hours
Over the years, there have been numerous aftermarket modification offered to the 340 and 340A, including RAM modifications, 300 or 400 pound gross weight increases, and engine mods to increase the horsepower.
