Beechcraft T-44A Pegasus

The Beechcraft T‑44A Pegasus is a twin‑engine turboprop trainer that entered service with the United States Navy in 1986 as the modern replacement for the aging T‑34C Mentor. Developed from the civilian Beechcraft King Air 90 series, the aircraft was extensively modified for military use, receiving a strengthened airframe, a new cockpit layout with fully redundant flight‑control systems, and a digital avionics suite that includes a multifunction display, GPS navigation, and a head‑up display. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A‑135A turboprop engines delivering 750 shaft horsepower each, the T‑44A offers a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots, a service ceiling above 30 000 feet, and a range of roughly 1 200 nautical miles, providing ample performance for advanced pilot training. Its side‑by‑side seating arrangement and dual control configuration make it ideal for instruction in instrument flying, formation tactics, and emergency procedures. Over three decades, the Pegasus has trained more than 5,000 naval aviators, contributing to the safety and proficiency of carrier‑based flight operations. The T‑44A’s reliability, low operating cost, and realistic jet‑like handling have cemented its role as a cornerstone of naval flight‑training curricula worldwide.

Beechcraft

Beechcraft T-44A Pegasus

Classification

Design & Classification