About the RAYTHEON AIRCRAFT COMPANY B300
The Raytheon Aircraft Company B300, widely known as the King Air 350, is a highly esteemed general aviation aircraft that stands as a pinnacle in the King Air family. Originally introduced by Beechcraft, which became a part of Raytheon in the 1980s, the King Air 350 continues to be a popular model in the business and utility aircraft markets. The production of the King Air 350 began in the late 1980s as an evolution of the successful King Air line, which first appeared in the 1960s with the Model 90 and Model 100 series, followed by the 200 series in the 1970s. The B300, or King Air 350, was specifically designed to offer enhanced performance, greater cabin comfort, and advanced avionics over its predecessors.
A significant motivation behind the production of the King Air 350 was to address the demand for a high-performing, twin-turboprop aircraft capable of undertaking a variety of missions while offering superior comfort and operational cost efficiency. The King Air 350 features two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60A engines, each delivering 1,050 horsepower, which allows it to achieve a maximum cruise speed of approximately 312 knots and a range of around 1,800 nautical miles, making it suitable for both short-haul and longer regional flights.
Key Features and Capabilities
An important niche that the King Air 350 serves is its versatility. It can be used for corporate transport, air ambulance services, cargo transport, and special mission applications like surveillance and flight inspection. One of the primary benefits of the King Air 350 is its spacious and quiet cabin, which can comfortably accommodate up to 11 passengers, depending on configuration. Additionally, it features modern avionics, including the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion system, enhancing its operational safety and pilot workload management.
Overall, the Raytheon (Beechcraft) King Air 350 has established itself as a reliable, efficient, and versatile aircraft that continues to be a favorite among pilots and operators for various roles across the globe.