Cessna 310
Last updated: 2026-04-21
The Cessna 310 is a six-seat, twin-engine piston aircraft powered by two Continental IO-470 or IO-520 engines, widely used across Europe for MEP(L) ratings and instrument training. It is a workhorse of European EASA general-aviation training fleets, used at both DTO and ATO operators for hour-building and rating progression. Its twin-engine configuration is widely used for MEP and IR training under EASA Part-FCL.
What is the Cessna 310 used for in flight training?
The Cessna 310 provides a demanding but rewarding platform for multi-engine piston training. Its relatively high VMC speed requires precise engine-failure drills, and the fuel-injected Continental engines teach mixture management and leaning procedures. The retractable undercarriage and variable-pitch propellers add complexity suited to CPL(A) candidates accumulating complex and multi-engine hours. Many European ATOs keep older 310 airframes specifically for MEP(L) skill tests due to their favourable asymmetric performance margins and well-documented handling notes.