The Commander 980 (Model 695) is a Commander 840 with the higher powered Honeywell (Garrett) TPE331-10 engines. The 331-10 engines offer better performance and lower overall cost if they have the extended time between overhauls (TBO). Today, the twin-engine Commander series is supported by Twin Commander Aircraft of Arlington, WA.
While the Aero Commanders were not the fastest turboprops in their class, they had a reputation for being well built, stable, and comfortable. With the high wing, entering and exiting the aircraft is easy for passengers and they also enjoy excellent downward visibility. The Commander 690 series had a small, but comfortable cabin with an emergency-use-only forward lavatory.
