Beechcraft King Air A100

The Beechcraft King Air A100, introduced in 1974 by the American manufacturer Beechcraft, marked the first twin‑engine turboprop in the celebrated King Air line. Developed from the earlier Model 65 (the “Beechcraft 65‑90”) and powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-20 engines, the A100 offered a pressurized cabin, four‑to‑six‑seat layout, and a maximum cruise speed of roughly 300 knots. Its robust airframe, low operating costs, and ability to operate from short, unimproved runways quickly attracted corporate operators, air‑medical services, and regional carriers. The aircraft’s simple hydraulics, straightforward avionics of the era, and a generous payload—up to 2,200 pounds—made it a versatile workhorse. Although production ceased in 1979, the A100 laid the groundwork for subsequent King Air variants such as the B200 and C90, influencing the design philosophy of reliability and flexibility that has kept the series dominant in the turboprop market for more than five decades. Today, many A100s remain active, serving as test platforms, training aircraft, and charter transports, underscoring the model’s lasting impact on general aviation and its role in establishing Beechcraft as a leader in twin‑engine turboprop technology.

Beechcraft

Beechcraft King Air A100

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Design & Classification