King Air: The ultimate multimission turboprop
The King Air is the most versatile turboprop aircraft on the market, ideal for missions in French-speaking Africa. With its legendary robustness and exceptional performance, it is the number 1 choice for private, governmental and humanitarian operators. Avianet Consulting offers new or certified used models, with financing and localized support.
King Air major strengths
- Extreme versatility: Adapted to over 10 missions – VIP transport (8-9 passengers), cargo (1,000 kg), surveillance, MEDEVAC, training, etc.
- Performance in hostile environments: Short runways (800m), high temperatures (+50°C), African dust and humidity.
- Range: Up to 2,800 km without refueling, perfect for regional connections.
- Speed: 550 km/h, reduced flight time for urgent missions.
- Economy: 200 L/h, maintenance costs 30% lower, high residual value.
- Safety: Pro Line Fusion avionics, autopilot, TCAS, terrain detection.
- Comfort: Soundproofed cabin (70 dB), enhanced air conditioning, ergonomic seats.
- Sustainability: Compatible with biofuels, 20% CO2 reduction.
- Customization: VIP configurations, cargo, ISR, short runway adaptations.
- Avianet support: Pilot training included, parts stored in Africa, extended warranty.
King Air technical specifications (350/360 model)
| Characteristic | Value | Comments / Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Twin-engine multimission turboprop | Versatile for VIP, cargo, surveillance, training |
| Manufacturer | Beechcraft (Textron Aviation) | Global support + parts available via Avianet network |
| Crew | 2 pilots | Easy and fast training for African pilots |
| Passenger capacity | 8–11 standard / up to 15 high density | Ideal for VIP transport or regional shuttles |
| Max payload | 1,360 kg (3,000 lb) | Light cargo or urgent medical freight |
| Length | 14.22 m | Easy to park at small African airports |
| Wingspan | 17.65 m | Stability in tropical turbulence |
| Height | 4.67 m | Short runway OK |
| Max takeoff weight (MTOW) | 6,804 kg (15,000 lb) | Maximum load even with full fuel |
| Max landing weight | 6,804 kg | Flexibility on short runways |
| Usable fuel | 2,040 L (539 US gal) | Long range for inter-country flights |
| Engines | 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-60A | Ultra-reliable (failure rate < 0.1%), common parts |
| Power per engine | 1,050 shp (shaft horsepower) | Excellent climb in hot altitude |
| Max cruise speed | 555 km/h (300 kts) | Reduced flight time for urgent missions |
| Economic cruise speed | 480–520 km/h | Optimized fuel economy |
| Service ceiling | 10,668 m (35,000 ft) | Flight above tropical storms |
| Takeoff distance (ISA, sea level) | 720–850 m | Operation on short African runways |
| Landing distance | 650–750 m | Ideal for secondary airports |
| Range (max with IFR reserves) | 2,800 km (1,510 nm) | Abidjan-Dakar, Bamako-Yaoundé connections without stopover |
| Fuel consumption (cruise) | ~200–250 L/h | Very competitive cost per hour |
| Estimated hourly operating cost | 1,200–1,800 USD (depending on configuration) | Among the lowest in its category |
| Certification | FAA Part 23, EASA, local DGAC possible | Legal flight everywhere in Africa |
| Avionics (recent models) | Collins Pro Line Fusion or Garmin G1000 NXi | Glass cockpit, autopilot, TCAS, TAWS, ADS-B |
| Popular options | ISR (cameras, radar), satellite WiFi, MEDEVAC kit, enhanced de-icing | Adapted to humanitarian/surveillance missions |