The new Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER twin turboprop has achieved FAA type certification, following its unveiling in August 2020. The move means customer deliveries can commence “in the coming weeks” said Textron Aviation.
“The new era of the industry-leading Beechcraft King Air begins today,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president of engineering and programmes. “The King Air 360 is a perfect combination of customer input, innovative technology and next-generation capabilities. By incorporating superior features and engineering advancements into an aircraft that is renowned for its versatility and reliability, we have elevated the King Air to the next level. With certification now in hand, we are thrilled to soon get these aircraft into the hands of our eager customers.”
The newly upgraded aircraft offers a redesigned cabin and enhancements to passenger comfort, as well as technological advancements in the cockpit. Christi Tannahill, senior vice president of customer experience at Textron Aviation, detailed the updates for a feature in the September/October 2020 issue of Business Jet Interiors International, which you can read by clicking here.
With standard seating for nine passengers, the latest King Air offers an even greater passenger experience than its predecessor. The aircraft features a cabin altitude of 5,960ft at a typical cruising altitude of 27,000ft – more than 10% lower than on the King Air 350i.
The redesigned cabin features custom-built cabinetry, partitions and sideledges; upgraded materials and finishes; and new interior schemes. Other amenities that come standard on the entire King Air line-up include pull-out work tables, standard power outlets, USB charging stations and a private aft lavatory.
Additions in the King Air 360 cockpit include the IS&S ThrustSense Autothrottle and a new digital pressurisation controller.
Nearly 7,600 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 62 million flight hours in its 56 years, serving roles in all branches of the US military and used for both commercial and special-mission operations around the world.
