Beechcraft King Air 100

The Beechcraft King Air 100, introduced in 1974 by the American manufacturer Beechcraft, marked a pivotal expansion of the company’s renowned twin‑engine business‑aircraft line. Developed from the earlier Model 90, the 100 series featured a longer fuselage, increased cabin space and a higher maximum take‑off weight, allowing it to carry up to nine passengers or a comparable cargo load. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-20 turboprop engines delivering 550 shaft horsepower each, the aircraft achieved cruise speeds of roughly 260 knots and a range of 1,200 nautical miles, making it suitable for regional corporate travel, air‑ambulance missions, and military utility roles. Its all‑metal construction, pressurised cabin, and advanced avionics for the era provided a comfortable, reliable platform that required relatively low operating costs. Over 1,000 units were built before production ceased in the early 1990s, and many remain in active service worldwide. The King Air 100’s blend of performance, versatility, and cost‑effectiveness cemented the King Air family’s reputation as a workhorse of general aviation, influencing subsequent models and cementing Beechcraft’s legacy in turboprop design. Its reliability has made it a preferred choice for training and surveillance operations, further extending its impact across civil and defense sectors.

Beechcraft

Beechcraft King Air 100

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