King Air C90 base

The Beechcraft King Air C90 Base is the entry‑level model of the celebrated King Air series, introduced in 1974 as a four‑seat, twin‑engine turboprop designed for both civil and military operators. Built on the robust King Air airframe, the C90 Base inherits a pressurised cabin and a low‑wing configuration that provide excellent stability and short‑field performance. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑21 turboprop engines delivering 550 shaft horsepower each, the aircraft cruises at 285 knots and can reach a service ceiling of 35,000 feet, while its rugged landing gear and optional floats allow operation from unpaved strips and water. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s the C90 became a favourite for corporate transport, air‑medic services, and training because of its low operating costs, simple systems, and proven reliability. Its straightforward avionics suite, easy‑maintain interior, and the capability to be upgraded to more advanced variants have kept the model in production for over four decades. The King Air C90 Base thus represents a cornerstone of modern turboprop aviation, bridging the gap between piston‑engine classics and high‑performance pressurised jets. Today, more than 1,500 C90s remain active worldwide, underscoring its enduring popularity among operators of all sizes.

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