About the BEECH B200
The Beechcraft B200, a model within the King Air series, stands out as one of the most significant aircraft in general aviation history. Produced by Beechcraft, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, the B200’s lineage dates back to the original King Air 90 series that first took to the skies in 1964. In the mid-1970s, Beechcraft sought to develop a more advanced variant, leading to the birth of the King Air 200 series. The B200, in particular, was introduced to the market in 1981 as a robust and versatile turboprop that quickly became a favorite among corporate, military, and charter operators. Its design embodies the culmination of continuous improvement over its predecessors.
The B200 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-42 engines, each producing 850 shaft horsepower, allowing the aircraft to cruise at a speed of around 300 knots and achieve a range of approximately 1,800 nautical miles. These characteristics make it ideal for short to mid-range flights, servicing routes that might not be practical for larger jets or less capable aircraft.
Key Features and Capabilities
The motivations behind the production of the B200 were multifaceted. Beechcraft aimed to offer a turboprop that delivered superior performance, reliability, and comfort. It fills the niche between light jets and smaller piston aircraft, offering a balance of operating cost and performance. The B200’s cabin is pressurized and can be configured to seat up to 13 passengers, but a typical comfortable configuration accommodates 6-9 passengers. Its versatility allowed it to be adapted for various roles, including air ambulance, cargo transport, maritime patrol, and flight training, besides its use as an executive transport.
One of the key benefits of the Beechcraft B200 is its renowned reliability and ruggedness. The aircraft's ability to operate from shorter and less well-maintained runways increases its operational flexibility. Furthermore, its reduced operational costs compared to jets make it a cost-effective choice for many operators. Overall, the Beechcraft B200 remains an enduring symbol of efficiency and versatility in the world of general aviation.