Fairchild Sa227-Ac

Twin Turboprop

The Fairchild Metro III is a twin-turboprop commuter aircraft that became the workhorse of regional aviation in the 1980s and 1990s, carrying up to 19 passengers on short-haul routes across North America and beyond. Built by Fairchild Aircraft (later acquired by what is now Textron Aviation), the Metro III entered service in 1981 as an evolution of the earlier Metro and Metro II, featuring more powerful Garrett TPE331-11 engines and improved performance that made it ideal for thin routes connecting small cities to major hubs. Its distinctive long, narrow fuselage and high wing gave it excellent short-field capability, allowing operations from runways as short as 3,000 feet. The Metro III carved out a unique niche as both a scheduled passenger airliner and a cargo hauler, with its pressurized cabin enabling cruise altitudes up to 25,000 feet and speeds around 290 knots. The type became particularly popular with regional carriers and corporate shuttle operators who valued its reliability, relatively low operating costs, and ability to serve airports too small for jets. Many Metro IIIs later found second careers as freight aircraft, medical evacuation platforms, and government surveillance aircraft, testament to the airframe's versatility and rugged construction. While most passenger Metro IIIs have been retired from scheduled airline service, replaced by larger regional jets and turboprops, the type remains active in cargo, charter, and specialized roles. Its straightforward systems, proven Garrett engines, and spacious cabin continue to make it a practical choice for operators needing a tough, capable twin turboprop. SkyMeter has tracked flights across airframes and operators, with the largest observed operator.