The Cessna 421 was Cessna’s largest piston twin. While it shares the basic airframe with the other 400-series twins, it offers better payload and performance over the others. The Cessna 421C is the “last stop” before stepping into a turboprop. The 421 was introduced in 1968 and 1,916 were produced during that time. Two geared 375 hp Continentals power the 421. These engines developed a reputation for being costly to overhaul and care must be taken when maintaining and operating the engines.
Tracing the development of the 421 is similar to the other 400 series. Early models had tip tanks and the fuselage was stretched and weights increased with the 421A. The 421C saw the tip tanks replaced by a sealed wing with greater span, and a larger rudder and tail fin was added.
As with the other 400-series Cessnas, the cabin was comfortable and, with pressurization, long trips could be made above much of the weather. Cargo capacity was also good and the aircraft has predictable, stable handling. The Cessna 421C compares well with the turboprop Piper Cheyenne I and King Air C90.
