The Beechcraft Model 18 made its first demonstration flight in 1937 and production continued for an impressive thirty-two years, with move than 9,000 aircraft built (a world record at that time). The low-wing, all-metal, twin-engine monoplane was originally intended as a six-to-eight passenger executive or feeder airline transport, but eventually thirty-two versions were built. The highly adaptable design became a mail plane, a utility aircraft, and a distance and speed record breaker. Military versions included personnel transport, photo reconnaissance, and trainers for navigators and bombardiers.

This tour has been created specifically for the new Carenado Model D18S, however, any twin engine turboprop will do. The only restriction is no jets. The routes are based a former airline named South Central Air Lines. South Central began scheduled operations from Ocala Municipal Airport in Florida in October 1963 with a fleet of Beech 18s and a Piper Aztec and a route system that stretched from Miami to Charlotte, NC. By the end of 1963 the company served 23 cities including 15 in Florida. While the company did not survive, the route structure was pretty interesting. If you would like to know more, you can go to https://www.sunshineskies.com/south-central.html.