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1968) boasted a one-piece “Speed Sweep” windshield that replaced the two-piece unit of the S35. All Model 35 Bonanzas manufactured in 1968 and after were reclassified with the prefix “V” to separate those airplanes from the Model 33 “Debonair,” which was renamed “Bonanza.”
Production of the iconic Model 35 came to an end in November 1982 when V35B serial number D-10,403 was delivered to the production flight test department. It was delivered to a dealer in May 1984. The last Model 35 to be delivered to a retail customer, V35B serial number D-10,399 occurred in August 1984.
Regardless of how it is measured, whether by comfort, quality of manufacture, speed or utility, the Beechcraft Model 35 has never had an equal and is remembered as one of general aviation’s most significant designs. It was, and remains to this day, incomparable. KA
NOTES:
1. Phillips,EdwardH.:“Piper–ALegend Aloft;” Flying Books International, Publishers & Wholesalers; Eagan, Minnesota; 1993.
2. Phillips, Edward H.: “The Staggerwing Story;” Flying Books International, Publishers & Wholesalers; Eagan, Minnesota; 1996.
3. Ball, Larry; “Those Incomparable Bonanzas;” McCormick-Armstrong Co., Inc., Publishing Division; Wichita, Kansas; 1971
4. Ibid
5. Ibid
6. Phillips, Edward H.: “Beechcraft – Pursuit of Perfection;” Flying Books, Publishers and Wholesalers; Eagan, Minnesota; 1992.
About the Author: Ed Phillips, now retired and living in the South, has researched and written eight books on the unique and rich aviation history that belongs to Wichita, Kan. His writings have focused on the evolution of the airplanes, companies and people that have made Wichita the “Air Capital of the World” for more than 80 years.
OCTOBER 2015
KING AIR MAGAZINE • 27