Textron’s line of King Air products has ruled the turbo prop market for decades and they don’t plan to give up the King title any time soon. While companies like Pilatus are producing absolutely amazing aircraft, the King Air line offers multi engine performance and peace of mind that many clients are looking for. Textron is staying ahead of the curve with the new King Air 360 by not only updating the cockpit with state-of-the-art technology but also redesigning the cabin for enhanced passenger comfort.
Let’s start in the cockpit. An auto throttle system helps reduce workload for pilots by automatically adjusting power settings throughout different stages of flight. This includes engine out scenarios when pilots need to have their undivided attention of troubleshooting. Pressurization is another task that will be taken care of automatically by the King Air 360 which will again reduce pilot workload and also add to passenger comfort. The pressurization system allows for a 10% lower cabin pressure than its predecessor keeping passengers at a cabin altitude below 6,000 feet even when at cruising altitudes. This reduces the classic issues that come along with flying such as fatigue and dehydration. Other cockpit improvements include reduced switches which have been integrated into the MFD and updates to the onboard maintenance systems.
The cabin upgrades on this aircraft make it an extremely comfortable plane. While it is sometimes referred to as an SUV with wings, we believe this is a huge understatement and misrepresentation that does an injustice to the King Air 360. With seating for up to 15 passengers and an extremely comfortable VIP configuration for 8 passengers, this aircraft offers more interior space than any SUV on the market. The focus on detail within this cabin is noticeable from the second you board with fine-tuned adjustments and additions made when compared to the King Air 350 series. These include USB charging ports, so your phone or tablet never goes dead, LED accent lighting and five new interior schemes as well as the existing king ranch interior option which is stunning.
Deliveries will start in the Fall of 2020 so we will be seeing this bird in the sky very soon.
