The Mitsubishi Heavy Industries MU-2 Series Role Utility transport aircraft National origin Japan Manufacturer Mitsubishi Heavy Industries First flight September 14, 1963 Status In service Produced 1963–1986 Number built 704 Here are five interesting facts about the airplane: 1 Pioneering Japanese design Japan resumed postwar aircraft production with the MU-2 The Mitsubishi MU-2 was Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' first aircraft design after World War II, marking Japan's re-entry into the aviation industry. This high-wing, twin-turboprop utility aircraft first flew on September 14, 1963, and was produced from 1963 to 1986. Its development represented a significant milestone for Japan's aerospace sector.
2 Unique aerodynamic features The MU-2 features a distinctive design with several unconventional elements A high-wing configuration with a low horizontal stabilizer Large, curved cockpit windows for excellent visibility Rectangular cabin windows that are notably large for an aircraft of its size Unique main landing gear that retracts sideways into the fuselage or fuselage fairings These design choices contribute to the MU-2's unmistakable appearance and specific flight characteristics. Perhaps the most distinctive design feature was the MU-2's unique and innovative approach to roll control that eliminated traditional ailerons. Here are the critical aspects of this design: Full-Span Flaps The MU-2's wings utilize full-span double-slotted Fowler flaps instead of having separate a.