Textron Aviation announced on October 5 the FAA type certification of the upgrades to its Becchcraft King Air 300 series—the King Air 360 and 360ER—paving the way for deliveries to begin. The 360 and 360ER feature autothrottles from Innovative Solutions & Support that ease pilot workload in most phases of flight, including takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and go around, sensing over- and under-speed, over-torque, and over-temperature situations. A new digital pressurization controller integrated into the Collins Pro Line Fusion flight deck automatically schedules pressurization during climb and descent, also easing workload and increasing comfort for the folks in back. The new model debuted in August 2020.
“The new era of the industry-leading Beechcraft King Air begins today,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programs for Textron Aviation. “The King Air 360 is a perfect combination of customer input, innovative technology and next-generation capabilities. By incorporating superior features and engineering advancements into an aircraft that is renowned for its versatility and reliability, we have elevated the King Air to the next level. With certification now in hand, we are thrilled to soon get these aircraft into the hands of our eager customers.”
The 360/360ER seats up to 9 passengers in an airframe that keeps a cabin altitude of 5,960 feet at 27,000 feet msl, which is 10 percent lower than cabin altitude at the equivalent cruise altitude in the King Air 350i. And the cabin itself has had a makeover, utilizing elements from the Citation CJ series with upgraded materials and colorways, plus USB and standard power outlets, and a private aft lavatory.
