Beechcraft
King Air B90
The Beechcraft King Air B90, introduced in 1970, marked the beginning of the highly successful King Air line of twin‑engine turboprop aircraft. Developed from the earlier Model 90 series, the B90 combined a pressurised cabin, robust Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑21 engines and a low‑wing design that yielded excellent short‑field performance. Its first flight on 22 May 1970 showcased a sleek, all‑metal airframe with a flat floor, allowing flexible seating for up to ten passengers or crew configurations for medical evacuation and cargo transport. The B90’s avionics suite, originally analog, was later upgraded to integrate modern glass panels, enhancing situational awareness and reliability.
Key features include a maximum cruise speed of 285 kt, a range exceeding 1,200 nm, and a service ceiling of 35 000 ft, making it suitable for both corporate travel and regional airline operations. The aircraft’s sturdy construction and relatively low operating costs cemented its reputation as a versatile workhorse. Over the decades, the B90 set the benchmark for performance and comfort in the turboprop market, influencing subsequent King Air models and remaining a valuable asset for flight schools, charter operators, and governmental agencies worldwide.
Key features include a maximum cruise speed of 285 kt, a range exceeding 1,200 nm, and a service ceiling of 35 000 ft, making it suitable for both corporate travel and regional airline operations. The aircraft’s sturdy construction and relatively low operating costs cemented its reputation as a versatile workhorse. Over the decades, the B90 set the benchmark for performance and comfort in the turboprop market, influencing subsequent King Air models and remaining a valuable asset for flight schools, charter operators, and governmental agencies worldwide.
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 184
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Beechcraft
- Developer
- Beechcraft
- Engine
- PT6A-20
- Wikidata ID
- Q15838806