A photo of a Beechcraft Starship aircraft has been circulating on social media, reportedly showing the aircraft flying over Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Jaime Edrosa, director of Addison Airport in Texas, stated via email that one of their tenants currently has four Beechcraft Starships based there. Aerospace Quality Research & Development (AQRD), an engineering company in Addison, claims to operate two airworthy Beech Starships, noting that only four remain globally.
The Beechcraft Starship, designed by aeronautics engineer Burt Rutan in 1982, was considered one of the most technologically advanced planes of its time. It was equipped with features such as an in-flight telephone and stereo systems, and could transport executives at speeds of 385 mph over distances of 600 miles. Despite its innovative design, the aircraft faced manufacturing issues and production delays, with the first official flight occurring in 1986. Ultimately, only 53 units were manufactured, and most were leased to Raytheon, leading to many being scrapped or placed in museums.
The recent photo of the Starship was posted on Monday, showing the aircraft from a distance. AQRD provides repairs and modifications for various aviation clients.