Beechcraft

King Air E90

The Beechcraft King Air E90 is a member of the long‑standing King Air 90 series, a line of twin‑engine turboprop aircraft that debuted in the early 1970s and quickly became a benchmark for reliability and versatility. Introduced in 1990, the E90 incorporated the more powerful PT6A‑21 engines, upgraded avionics, and refined aerodynamics, delivering a cruise speed of roughly 300 knots and a maximum operating altitude of 30,000 feet. Its pressurised cabin can comfortably accommodate six to nine passengers, making it a popular choice for corporate transport, air‑medical missions, and light cargo operations.

Throughout its production run—continuing until the model’s retirement in 2009—the E90 earned a reputation for rugged performance in diverse environments, from remote bush fields to polished corporate terminals. The aircraft’s simple yet robust design, combined with low operating costs and a generous payload, allowed operators to maintain high utilization rates where jets would be uneconomical. As a result, the King Air E90 helped cement Beechcraft’s position as a leader in the turboprop market and influenced subsequent designs, reinforcing the importance of adaptable, cost‑effective airplanes in modern aviation.

Production & History

Units Produced
347
First Flight
1972

Design & Classification

Country of Origin
Manufacturer
Beechcraft
Developer
Beechcraft
Engine
PT6A-28
Wikidata ID
Q15838878