Beechcraft King Air C90

The Beechcraft King Air C90, introduced in 1974 by the American manufacturer Beechcraft, became the entry‑level model of the legendary King Air series. Developed from the twin‑engine Model 90, the C90 featured a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑21 turboprop delivering 550 shaft horsepower, which gave it a cruising speed of about 300 knots and a range of roughly 1,200 nautical miles. Its pressurised cabin, capable of seating six passengers or a combination of cargo and crew, offered airline‑level comfort in a relatively small airframe, making it popular with corporate operators, air‑ambulance services, and government agencies. Over the decades the C90 spawned numerous variants—such as the C90A, C90B, and the extended‑range C90GT—each incorporating upgrades like improved avionics, more powerful engines, and increased fuel capacity. The aircraft’s reliability, simple maintenance requirements, and low operating costs helped establish the King Air line as a mainstay of twin‑turbo‑prop aviation worldwide. Today the C90 remains a cornerstone of Beechcraft’s legacy, demonstrating the lasting impact of a design that blended performance, versatility, and affordability for both commercial and private users. It continues to be supported by a global network of service centers and parts suppliers.

Beechcraft

Beechcraft King Air C90

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Design & Classification