History of the M22
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Early 1960s (around 1962–1963): Mooney Aircraft recognized that the market was shifting toward higher-performance personal aircraft that could fly above weather and traffic. Pressurization was seen as the next frontier for general aviation singles.
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By 1963, Mooney engineers had started design studies for a pressurized development of the stretched M20 fuselage, which became the M22 Mustang.
1964
First Flight
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Date: September 24, 1964
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Event: The Mooney M22 Mustang had its maiden flight, marking a significant milestone in aviation history as the first pressurized single-engine piston aircraft.
1965
Production Begins
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Initial production aircraft, including N7735M (#1), were delivered to company representatives and select customers under special FAA arrangements, likely with operational limitations pending certification.
1966
It's Official!
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Date: September 26, 1966
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The M22 Mustang received its FAA type certification, officially recognizing it as a certified aircraft.
1967
Brave Flight
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Pilot Paul Rachal (23) flew the second production M22, the “Spirit of Texas,” non-stop from New York to Paris in 13 hours 10 minutes, showcasing the aircraft’s pressurization, range, and performance.
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Following the transatlantic flight, the M22 was displayed at the Paris Air Show, introducing the aircraft to an international audience.
1968
Slow Start
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Limited Deliveries: Only a handful of Mustangs were delivered to customers.
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High cost, development delays, and financial struggles hurt sales.
1970
End of Production
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Mooney Bankruptcy: The Mustang project was discontinued after only 36 units were built.
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Mooney filed for bankruptcy, marking the end of the Mustang’s short production life.
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Last unit made N7739M s/n 700006
