Exploring the Legacy of the 1969 Aero Commander Shrike 500S

The Aero Commander Shrike 500S, celebrated for its blend of robust performance and comfort, stands out with its two powerful Lycoming IO-540-E1B5 engines, each delivering 290 horsepower. With a best cruise speed of 176 KIAS and a range of 825 nautical miles, this aircraft excels in both speed and distance capabilities. Its handling is notably pilot-friendly, despite an array of controls, thanks to features like full-throttle operation without restriction and simplified fuel management due to interconnected fuel tanks. The aircraft’s spacious cabin can comfortably seat up to 6 passengers plus 1 pilot, ensuring a pleasant journey with ample room for movement akin to an airliner’s cabin. Safety is bolstered by a utility-category certification, partly due to its robust landing gear designed for aircraft nearly twice the Shrike’s weight, allowing for easy landings on unimproved airstrips. Additional comforts such as eyebrow windows for improved cockpit visibility further enhance its appeal among pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike.

The Aero Commander 500-S, known as the “Shrike Commander,” is a testament to its enduring legacy and performance capabilities, highlighted by its association with the legendary pilot Bob Hoover. The “Shrike” name itself, while not detailed in the sources for its direct origin, evokes the characteristics of agility, power, and precision, akin to the predatory bird. This naming likely reflects the aircraft’s design intentions and operational capabilities, setting it apart within the Aero Commander series. The Shrike Commander’s historical significance is further enriched by Bob Hoover’s aerobatic displays, which demonstrated its exceptional handling and performance. The aircraft’s development, from its initial design by Ted Smith in 1946 through to its evolution under Rockwell’s stewardship until 1981, marks a significant period in aviation history, where the Shrike Commander played a pivotal role.

AERO COMMANDER: A Legacy of Innovation

Before we delve into the specifics of the Shrike 500S, it’s crucial to understand the legacy of its manufacturer, Aero Commander. Founded in 1944 by Ted Smith, Aero Commander quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and commitment to quality craftsmanship. The company’s early successes laid the foundation for a brand synonymous with reliability and performance in the aviation world.

The Shrike 500S: A Brief History

The Shrike 500S emerged in 1969 as an evolution of the Aero Commander 500 series. Boasting a sleek design and powerful performance, it quickly captured the attention of pilots and enthusiasts alike. Its designation as a “Shrike” symbolized its prowess and agility, characteristics that would define its reputation in the years to come.

Specifications and Features

Airframe:

The airframe of the 1969 Aero Commander Shrike 500S boasts a remarkable total time of 18,714.8 hours, reflecting its robust construction and enduring reliability. With an annual inspection due in March 2024, this aircraft is meticulously maintained to ensure peak performance and safety standards. Featuring a fuel capacity of 156 usable gallons and a stall speed of 68 mph with flaps and landing gear down, the Shrike 500S offers impressive maneuverability and efficiency in various flight conditions. Whether cruising at 203 mph or covering a range of over 1,000 miles, its airframe embodies the perfect balance of durability and agility.

Engines:

Powering the Shrike 500S are two Lycoming IO-540-E1B5 engines, each delivering 290HP and boasting a generous 1700 TBO. With engine overhauls completed in 2013 for Engine 1 and 2012 for Engine 2, totaling 1190.6 and 1387.9 hours SMOH respectively, these power plants are primed for continued performance and reliability. Located at Ponderosa Aviation, Inc., the overhauls ensure optimal efficiency and longevity, allowing pilots to confidently navigate the skies with peace of mind.

Props:

Equipped with Hartzell HC-C3YR-2UF props overhauled in 2013, the Shrike 500S offers smooth and efficient propulsion throughout its flight envelope. With a total time of 1387.9 hours TSOH, these props are meticulously maintained to deliver consistent performance and responsiveness. Whether climbing, cruising, or descending, pilots can rely on the precision and balance of the propellers to enhance overall flight characteristics and handling.

Avionics:

The avionics suite of the Shrike 500S is a testament to its modern capabilities and safety features. Anchored by a Garmin GNS 430W GPS/Nav/Comm system and complemented by a King KX-155 Nav/Comm unit, pilots benefit from enhanced navigation and communication capabilities. The addition of a GTX 330ES transponder ensures compliance with airspace requirements while providing added situational awareness. With the Century III autopilot system, pilots can enjoy hands-free operation, allowing for smoother and more efficient flight profiles.

Additional Features:

Beyond its impressive performance and avionics, the Shrike 500S comes equipped with a range of additional features aimed at enhancing comfort, convenience, and safety. From 100-amp alternators and Lamar overvoltage relays to Brackett air filters and AeroDyne Commander-Aero winglets, every aspect of the aircraft is meticulously engineered for optimal functionality and reliability. With precise flight pulselite landing/taxi/recognition light systems, Whelen rotating beacons, and 3-position strobes, visibility is maximized in all lighting conditions, ensuring safe operations day or night.

Exterior:

Adorned in Matterhorn White and Red with Las Vegas Gold accent striping, the exterior of the Shrike 500S exudes timeless elegance and sophistication. Repainted in April 2004 and maintained at an 8+/10 condition, the aircraft stands out on the tarmac with its striking color scheme and sleek aerodynamic profile. With new Cee Bailey windshields installed in 2013 and the copilot bubble window removed, the exterior reflects meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

Interior:

Inside the cabin, passengers are greeted with a tastefully appointed interior featuring tan upholstery and comfortable seating for five. While the overall condition is rated at 5/10, the pilot and copilot seats were recovered in April 2008, ensuring a comfortable and inviting environment for all occupants. With amenities such as inertia reel shoulder harnesses, pilot side frameless window vents, and an Airwolf air/oil separator, every detail is designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind.

Utility and Performance

The Shrike 500S isn’t just about looks; it’s a powerhouse in the sky. Capable of carrying seven occupants, it offers a range of 1,078 miles and a cruising speed of 203 mph at 75% power, making it ideal for both short hops and longer journeys. Its versatility shines through in its ability to handle various missions, from corporate travel to cargo transport and even aerial firefighting duties.

Upcoming Auction

Excitement mounts as the 1969 Aero Commander Shrike 500S prepares to go under the hammer. Scheduled for auction from March 27 to April 3, 2024, this pristine aircraft presents a rare opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and collectors alike. With a minimum bid of $50,000 and a buyer premium of 4%, prospective buyers can secure their piece of aviation history with a deposit of $3,000.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 1969 Aero Commander Shrike 500S stands as a testament to Aero Commander’s commitment to excellence and innovation. From its storied history to its impeccable performance and upcoming auction, this aircraft continues to captivate hearts and minds, leaving an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. As enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of the auction, one thing remains certain: the legacy of the Shrike 500S will endure for generations to come.