The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise is a name that resonates with aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike. This twin-turboprop aircraft, a product of Japanese engineering, has a rich history and a reputation for being a high-performance, versatile, and sometimes controversial aircraft. This article will take a deep dive into the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, exploring its history, design, performance, and its unique place in the world of aviation.

A Brief History

The story of the MU-2 begins in post-war Japan. Mitsubishi, a company already renowned for its engineering prowess, set its sights on designing a light, twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft in 1956. The first MU-2 took to the skies in September 1963, powered by two Turbomeca Astazou engines. This marked the beginning of a production run that would last until 1986, with a total of 704 aircraft being manufactured in Japan.

The MU-2 was one of postwar Japan's most successful aircraft. The airframe was built in Japan and then shipped to the United States for final assembly, which included the installation of the iconic AiResearch TPE331 engines, avionics, and interiors. This unique production process was a testament to the global nature of the aviation industry even in its earlier days.

The Marquise Variant

The "Marquise" is a specific version of the MU-2, the MU-2B-60, which was built between 1979 and 1985. This long-cabin version was equipped with the more powerful Garrett TPE331-10-511M engines, which gave it enhanced performance capabilities. The Marquise, with its spacious cabin and impressive speed, became a popular choice for corporate and private travel.

Design and Performance

The Mitsubishi MU-2 was a cutting-edge airplane for its time. It was designed from the ground up to be a turboprop, unlike many of its contemporaries which were often modified piston-engine aircraft. This clean-sheet design allowed Mitsubishi to optimize the aircraft for turboprop performance, resulting in a high-speed, high-altitude aircraft.

One of the most distinctive features of the MU-2 is its high wing with full-span flaps. This design provides excellent short-field performance, allowing the aircraft to operate from smaller airports. The spoilers, instead of traditional ailerons, for roll control are another unique design feature that contributes to its high cruise speed.

The Marquise variant boasts a maximum cruise speed of around 300 knots and a range of approximately 784 nautical miles. It has a spacious cabin for its class, with a length of 16 feet, a width of 4 feet 8 inches, and a height of 4 feet 3 inches. The aircraft can carry a payload of around 825 lbs. with full fuel.

The Safety Record

The MU-2 has had a controversial safety record, with a number of accidents that have drawn scrutiny. However, it's important to understand the context behind these statistics. The MU-2 is a high-performance aircraft that demands a high level of pilot proficiency. Many of the accidents have been attributed to inadequate training and a lack of understanding of the aircraft's unique flight characteristics.

In response to the safety concerns, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the MU-2. This regulation mandates specific training for all MU-2 pilots, which has significantly improved the aircraft's safety record. The accident rate for the MU-2 has shown a marked decrease since the implementation of the SFAR.

The MU-2 Today

Despite being out of production for decades, the Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise remains a popular aircraft in the used market. Its combination of speed, range, and short-field capability makes it a versatile and attractive option for many pilots and operators. The strong support network and the availability of parts and maintenance services have also contributed to its longevity.

Conclusion

The Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise is more than just an aircraft; it's a piece of aviation history. Its innovative design, impressive performance, and unique story make it a fascinating subject for anyone interested in aviation. While it has faced its share of challenges, the MU-2 has proven to be a resilient and capable aircraft, a testament to the quality of Japanese engineering and a beloved icon in the skies.

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