The SC7 Skyvan was designed as a simple and rugged transport for use on any kind of airstrip. With a specified ability to lift a 4000 lb payload from a 2400 ft runway. The design originated from the Miles Aerovan project.
The square (6ft 6in) section cabin that led to the 'van' name was decided on to maximize the useful loading area for a small aircraft. A rear loading door with ramp giving full access to the cabin.
The Skyvan prototype, originally powered by two Continental GTSIO-520 piston engines, first took to the air on 17th January 1963. The production aircraft was marketed and built with Astazou XI turboprops, with the turboprop prototype also being relaunched in October that same year.
Further development resulted in the Series 2 Skyvan with larger fuel capacity and upgraded Astazou XII engines (730 eshp) in October 1965, for deliveries in 1966.
December 1967 saw the launch of the Series 3 aircraft with new Garrett AiResearch engines for delivery in mid 1968. The series 3 had a gross weight of 12,500lb and along with the series 3A proved to be very successful. The 3A could carry even higher weights up to 13,700lb and was also certified to carry up to 22 passengers. All of the 3A passenger aircraft were called 'Skyliner' rather than 'Skyvan'.
In total 150 aircraft were built up until 1987.

(Article by David Maltby)

Skyvan/Skyliner 3A data
Accommodation: 1-2 Crew & 22 passengers
Engines: 2 Garrett AiResearch TPE 331-201 turboprops 715shp
Span: 64ft 11in
Length: 40ft 1in
Gross weight: 13,700lb
Max payload: 4,600lb
Max cruise: 203mph at 10,000ft
Range: 184 miles with 4,000lb payload & reserves
reference & data Civil Airliner Recognition 1973