1988

On 15 December 1988, Saab presented a new commercial sensation in the form of the Saab 2000 high-speed turboprop. With a jet-like cruise speed of 670 km/h, the Saab 2000 is the fastest turboprop airliner on the market. Combined with a range of 2,340 km, this makes it very competitive both over short and medium distances. The prototype Saab 2000 was rolled out at the end of 1991 and the first production aircraft was delivered in August 1994 for airline service with launch customer Crossair.

The company rapidly established itself as a world leader in the turboprop regional airliner market. American Airlines (AMR Eagle) shortly signed the largest-ever order for regional aircraft, 50 Saab 340s. A logical development of this highly successful 30/37-seater, the Saab 2000 can carry up to 58 passengers.

In December 1988, the prototype Gripen flew for the first time.