Textron Aviation Starts Production on New Beechcraft King Air 360 Models in Wichita

Textron Aviation has announced a new model of the Beechcraft King Air, and production has already started in the Air Capital of the World.

“We’re always looking for new ways to improve and break new ground,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president of sales and flight operations. “Whether it’s in the services we offer or the aircraft we bring to life, our products continue to lead the world in general aviation.”

Ron Draper, CEO and president, said the improvements from the old 350 aircraft models were developed using feedback from customers. The new Beechcraft King Air 360 and King Air 360ER models feature a reduced workload for pilots to make flying the aircraft easier and a more comfortable cabin and modern environment for passengers.

“Aircraft assembly is already underway here in Wichita by our hard-working and dedicated workforce,” Draper said. “And deliveries will begin this fall.”

Christi Tannahill, senior vice president of customer experience, referred to the King Air as “an SUV with wings” and said the 360 has a maximum occupancy of 11 people. It has five new interior color schemes. Among the improvements are more leg room for passengers and USB charging stations throughout the cabin.

Around 7,600 King Air turboprops have been delivered in more than 50 years. They have been flying for commercial customers and all branches of the U.S. military.

“One of our most popular aircraft is the legendary Beechcraft King Air,” Scholl said. “When it comes to business turbo props, the King Air family reigns supreme. For so many of us, the different variants of this aircraft are known as powerful platforms that have enabled many operators around the globe to do more and go farther.”

The key feature of the cockpit upgrades is the Innovative Solutions & Support ThrustSense Autothrottle, Textron officials said in a news release. The autothrottle supports pilots by automatically managing engine power from the takeoff roll through the climb, cruise, descent, go-around and landing phases of flight.

Textron got special type certification approval to equip the planes with the autothrottle.

Another feature is a new digital pressurization controller that automatically schedules cabin pressurization during climb and descent, reducing pilot workload and increasing passenger comfort.

The up to nine passengers in the cabin experience greater comfort, especially on longer flights, from the improved cabin altitude level. Pull-out work tables, standard power outlets and a private aft lavatory are standard on King Airs.

“We created an environment that provides passengers with a greater sense of openness inside the King Air,” Tannahill said. “The cabin experience is such a critical element when choosing an aircraft, and it was important for us to surpass customer expectations. Their journey will not only be comfortable, but also a relaxing, enjoyable experience. The Beechcraft King Air 360 offers many of the amenities that our customers desire.”

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