The Saab 340 in freighter conversion (first QC freighter delivered to Finnaviation in 1987) is a twin-turboprop regional cargo type, and Naples-market cargo work on the airframe moves through RSW or Fort Lauderdale rather than KAPF. Short-hop mission profile.
Base 340A entered passenger service in 1985; Field Aviation runs the freighter conversion program. Two flight crew. Main-deck cargo volume 1,276 cubic feet in freighter configuration. Range 785 nautical miles at max payload of around 9,400 pounds; with max fuel and light payload extends to 2,145 nautical miles. Cruise 282 knots true, ceiling 25,000 feet. Length 64.8 feet, wingspan 70.3 feet.
Performance and Cabin
- Category: Cargo Aircraft
- Manufacturer: Saab AB (freighter conversion by Field Aviation)
- Year introduced: 1987
- Seating: Crew only (cargo)
- Crew: 2
- Range: 785 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: 282 knots
- Service ceiling: 25,000 feet
- Length: 64.8 feet
- Wingspan: 70.3 feet
- Height: 22.9 feet
- Baggage volume: 1,276 cubic feet
- Lavatory: Crew only
Why the Saab 340 Fits Naples
RSW to Bahamas short-hop cargo (Nassau, Freeport, Marsh Harbour) fits the Saab 340F. Same for RSW to Key West (EYW) and RSW to small Florida distribution ramps. Under 800-nautical-mile legs with a full cargo load are the sweet spot.
Intra-Florida hub feeder work runs the Saab 340F between MIA, FLL, RSW, and MCO. The type moves overnight freight between the major freighter ramps and the smaller regional distribution centers that serve Naples-area retail.
Hurricane Ian (2022) precedent: small twin-turboprop freighters were part of the initial airlift into RSW and PGD once the fields reopened. The Saab 340F handles damaged or shorter runways better than the ATR 72F on tight fields.
Vetting Behind Every Trip
Every operator, aircraft, and crew goes through our internal due diligence before we present any options. Our internal standards meet or exceed what the FAA requires:
- FAR Part 135 charter operators for traditional private aircraft, or FAR Part 121 for airliner-size and group trips (or the foreign equivalent on international legs)
- Operator subscription to Wyvern and ARGUS reviewed where the operator participates; reports may be provided on request.
- Pilot experience and operator incident history reviewed before we recommend an aircraft.
- Fewer than 60 brokers worldwide hold Premium Wyvern Broker Member status, and Air Charter Advisors is one of them.
Charter Pricing Reference
Industry hourly rates for the Saab 340 run $2,000 to $3,000 per hour as of 7/2026. Actual quotes vary by operator, routing, positioning, and date.
Hourly billing runs $2,000 to $3,000 per flight hour as of 7/2026 (source: ACA published range). Short-hop cargo economics only make sense on legs under three hours; longer, and the ATR 72F or a narrowbody jet is more efficient per pound.
Other Cargo Aircrafts Available
- ATR 72F
- Antonov An-124 Ruslan
- Boeing 737-400 Freighter
- Boeing 737-800BCF
- Boeing 747-400F
- Boeing 747-8F
Contact
For a quote on a Saab 340 charter in or out of Naples, head to our contact page. For the vetting work behind every trip, see our safety page. To browse cross-category options for the same trip, visit the aircraft directory.
The hourly rates provided are estimates based on 2026 market data and are for informational purposes only. These figures are subject to change and do not constitute a final offer. Final pricing is dynamic and depends on real-time factors including, but not limited to, specific itinerary requirements, aircraft positioning (“ferry” fees), fuel price volatility, and current market availability. These estimates exclude all applicable taxes, de-icing, landing and handling fees, special event fees, international surcharges, overnight crew expenses, and premium catering. Please contact Air Charter Advisors directly for a firm, all-inclusive quote tailored to your specific travel needs.