Dallas-area logistics operations with very small freight volumes that need a dedicated aircraft on short regional routes sometimes charter the Shorts 360 in cargo configuration, a twin-turboprop commuter freighter with a square-section fuselage that maximizes volume for its overall size. From DFW it covers intrastate Texas and neighboring states within its 570-nautical-mile range. A compact freighter built for short regional lanes where payload volume matters more than weight.
The Shorts 360 is a twin-turboprop commuter aircraft, developed from the Shorts 330 with a stretched fuselage. Its square cross-section fuselage is a design feature that provides more usable cargo volume than a circular fuselage of equivalent width, particularly for bulky, lightweight freight. Two Pratt and Whitney Canada PT6A-65R turboprop engines power it. Range in cargo configuration is approximately 570 nautical miles. Payload capacity is approximately 1.5 metric tons. The aircraft uses short runways, making it accessible at small regional airstrips. Every Shorts 360 we arrange flies with an operator certified under FAR Part 135, the FAA rules for on-demand, for-hire charter.

Performance and Cabin
- Category: Cargo Aircraft
- Manufacturer: Short Brothers (Belfast)
- Year introduced: 1982
- Seating: Crew only (cargo)
- Crew: 2
- Range: 570 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: 210 knots
- Service ceiling: 20,000 feet
- Length: 70.8 feet
- Wingspan: 74.8 feet
- Height: 23.9 feet
- Baggage volume: 922 cubic feet
- Lavatory: Crew only
Why the Shorts 360 Fits Dallas
From Addison Airport (KADS) in Addison, TX, the Shorts 360 covers Houston (approximately 240 nautical miles) and San Antonio (approximately 245 nautical miles) comfortably within its range. For small freight volumes on those lanes, where a larger turboprop would have empty payload capacity and a jet would be economically disproportionate, the Shorts 360 fills the gap. It is the aircraft for the shipment that is urgent, small, and has no space on a scheduled service.
The Shorts 360’s short-field performance and modest weight open up the smaller secondary DFW airports, including Dallas Executive Airport (KRBD), to cargo operations. A shipper in south Dallas can stage directly from KRBD rather than routing freight north to KADS, shortening the ground leg and simplifying the logistics. The aircraft’s square fuselage also accommodates awkwardly shaped packages that do not fit efficiently in round or cylindrical cargo containers.
For DFW-area courier operations, medical supply shippers, or small manufacturers with same-day delivery requirements on short Texas routes, the Shorts 360 provides a dedicated option below the typical charter minimum size for jet freighters. Its low operating cost relative to jet alternatives makes it one of the few freighters where a very small payload can justify a charter charter on economic grounds for truly time-critical freight.
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 Shorts 360 run $1,800 to $2,500 per hour as of 8/2026. Actual quotes vary by operator, routing, positioning, and date.
Shorts 360 cargo charter rates are among the lowest in the dedicated freighter category, reflecting its small size and payload. Rates are quoted per trip. This aircraft is best suited for payloads under 1.5 metric tons on routes under 500 nautical miles from DFW.
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 Shorts 360 charter from Dallas, TX, call +1 (888) 987-5387 or visit 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.