Beechcraft King Air C90Gti: Turbocharged Executive Aircraft

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is a twin-turboprop aircraft that represents a significant evolution in the King Air series, blending performance, reliability, and advanced avionics to serve as a versatile aircraft for both business and personal use. Manufactured by Hawker Beechcraft between 2008 and 2010, the C90GTi builds on the legacy of the King Air family, which has been a staple in aviation since the 1960s. The C90GTi is known for its ability to operate efficiently in various environments, from remote airstrips to congested airports, making it a popular choice for operators who need flexibility without sacrificing comfort or performance.

I. Overview of the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is part of the renowned King Air series, which has long been celebrated for its durability, reliability, and versatility. The C90GTi model specifically was designed to offer enhanced performance over its predecessors while incorporating modern avionics systems that elevate its operational capabilities.

Key Features and General Data

• Manufacturer: Hawker Beechcraft
• Country: United States
• Years Manufactured: 2008 to 2010
• ICAO Code: BE9L
• Price: Approximately $3.9 million when new

The King Air C90GTi was introduced as an upgrade to the earlier C90GT model, with significant improvements in avionics and overall aircraft performance. One of the most notable additions was the integration of the Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, which brought jet-like capabilities to this turboprop aircraft. The Pro Line 21 system includes advanced features such as weather radar, GPS navigation, and enhanced situational awareness tools that make flying safer and more efficient.

Performance Data

The performance of the King Air C90GTi is one of its standout features. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engines, each delivering 550 horsepower, the aircraft offers impressive speed and range for its class.

• Maximum Cruise Speed: 226 knots (419 km/h)
• Approach Speed (Vref): 101 knots
• Travel Range: 1,321 nautical miles (2,446 kilometers)
• Fuel Economy: 3.44 nautical miles per gallon (1.683 kilometers per liter)
• Service Ceiling: 30,000 feet
• Rate of Climb: 1,953 feet per minute (9.92 meters per second)

These specifications make the C90GTi an efficient choice for operators looking for a balance between speed and fuel economy. The aircraft’s range allows it to cover significant distances without needing frequent refueling stops, making it ideal for regional travel or even longer cross-country flights.

Operational Flexibility

One of the key selling points of the King Air C90GTi is its operational flexibility. The aircraft can take off from shorter runways than many jets in its class, thanks to its relatively low takeoff distance requirement:

• Takeoff Distance: 1,402 meters (4,599 feet)
• Landing Distance: 826 meters (2,709 feet)

This ability to operate from shorter airstrips opens up a wide range of airports that are inaccessible to larger jets or less capable turboprops. Whether flying into remote locations or busy metropolitan areas with limited runway space, the C90GTi provides versatility that few other aircraft can match.

Weights and Capacities

The King Air C90GTi is designed to carry a substantial payload while maintaining excellent performance characteristics:

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 4,581 kg (10,099 lbs)
• Maximum Landing Weight (MLW): 4,354 kg (9,599 lbs)
• Maximum Payload: 1,043 kg (2,299 lbs)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 384 gallons (1,454 liters)

These weight specifications ensure that operators can carry both passengers and cargo without compromising on fuel capacity or range. The aircraft’s baggage volume is also generous for its class:

• Baggage Volume: 1.37 cubic meters (48 cubic feet)

This ample storage space makes it suitable for business travelers who may need to carry additional equipment or personal items.

II. Cabin Design and Comfort

The cabin design of the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is another area where this aircraft stands out from its competitors. While many turboprops focus purely on functionality, the C90GTi offers a cabin experience that rivals many light jets in terms of comfort and amenities.

Cabin Dimensions

The interior of the King Air C90GTi is designed with passenger comfort in mind:

• Cabin Height: 1.45 meters (4.76 feet)
• Cabin Width: 1.37 meters (4.49 feet)
• Cabin Length: 3.84 meters (12.60 feet)

These dimensions provide ample space for passengers to move around comfortably during flight. The cabin’s squared-oval design maximizes headroom and shoulder room compared to other aircraft with more traditional circular fuselages.

Seating Configuration

The typical seating configuration for the King Air C90GTi accommodates up to six passengers in an economy-class layout with no business or first-class seating options:

• Seats – Economy/General: Up to 12 seats
• Seats – Business Class/First Class: None

While some operators may configure their aircraft with fewer seats to provide more legroom or additional amenities such as workstations or entertainment systems, most configurations prioritize maximizing passenger capacity without sacrificing comfort.

Interior Amenities

In addition to comfortable seating arrangements, the King Air C90GTi offers several interior amenities that enhance the overall passenger experience:

• Pressurized cabin for comfort at high altitudes
• In-flight accessible baggage compartment
• Optional lavatory located at the rear of the cabin

These features make the C90GTi an attractive option for business travelers who need both comfort and practicality during their flights.

Noise Reduction

Another key feature of the King Air C90GTi’s cabin is its noise reduction technology. Turboprop engines are typically noisier than jet engines due to their propeller-driven design; however, Beechcraft has incorporated advanced soundproofing materials into the cabin walls and floors to minimize engine noise during flight.

This attention to detail ensures that passengers can enjoy a quieter ride compared to other turboprops in this category—a crucial consideration for those using their aircraft for business travel where productivity during flight may be important.

Citations:
[1] https://www.aircraftcostcalculator.com/AircraftOperatingCosts/41/Beechcraft+King+Air+C90GTi
[2] https://www.guardianjet.com/jet-aircraft-online-tools/aircraft-brochure.cfm?m=Beech-King-Air-C90-GTi-36
[3] https://media.txtav.com/195199-legendary-beechcraft-king-air-now-even-more-capable-with-launch-of-new-c90gtx
[4] https://www.globalair.com/aircraft-for-sale/specifications?specid=887
[5] https://www.bjtonline.com/business-jet-news/hawker-beechcrafts-king-air-c90gti

III. Avionics and Technology

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi sets itself apart from earlier models and competitors by featuring advanced avionics systems that enhance both safety and operational efficiency. The inclusion of the Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite is one of the most significant upgrades in the C90GTi, providing pilots with a modern, integrated cockpit environment that rivals those found in larger jets.

Collins Pro Line 21 Avionics Suite

The Collins Pro Line 21 is a state-of-the-art avionics system that brings a range of advanced features to the King Air C90GTi. This system is designed to improve situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and enhance safety by integrating various flight systems into a single, easy-to-use interface. Key features of the Pro Line 21 suite include:

• Four 10-inch LCD Displays: These high-resolution screens provide pilots with clear, easily readable information on flight parameters, navigation, weather, and more.
• Integrated Flight Information System (IFIS): This system consolidates critical flight data such as charts, weather maps, and terrain information into one display, allowing pilots to make more informed decisions.
• Dual GPS Navigation: The Pro Line 21 includes dual GPS units for highly accurate navigation, ensuring that the aircraft can safely navigate even in challenging conditions or remote areas.
• Weather Radar: The onboard weather radar system provides real-time updates on weather conditions along the flight path, helping pilots avoid turbulence or hazardous weather.
• Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS): This system alerts pilots to nearby aircraft that may pose a collision risk, enhancing safety in crowded airspace.
• Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS): EGPWS helps prevent controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) by providing visual and auditory alerts if the aircraft is approaching terrain at an unsafe altitude.

These features not only improve operational efficiency but also contribute to safer flights by providing pilots with better tools for navigation and hazard avoidance. The Pro Line 21 system is highly regarded in the aviation industry for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive capabilities.

Autopilot System

The King Air C90GTi is equipped with an advanced autopilot system that integrates seamlessly with the Pro Line 21 avionics suite. This autopilot system allows for precise control of the aircraft during all phases of flight, from takeoff to landing. Some key features of the autopilot system include:

• Altitude Hold: Automatically maintains a set altitude during flight.
• Heading Control: Allows the pilot to set a specific heading for the aircraft to follow.
• Vertical Speed Mode: Enables the pilot to control the rate of climb or descent.
• Approach Mode: Assists with precision approaches during landing, ensuring smooth and accurate descents.

The autopilot system significantly reduces pilot workload on long flights or in challenging weather conditions, allowing for more efficient operation and enhanced safety.

Flight Management System (FMS)

The Flight Management System (FMS) in the King Air C90GTi is another key component of its avionics suite. The FMS automates many of the tasks associated with navigation and fuel management, freeing up pilots to focus on other aspects of flying. The FMS in the C90GTi includes:

• Route Planning: Pilots can program complex flight routes into the FMS before takeoff, which will then automatically guide the aircraft along the planned route using GPS navigation.
• Fuel Management: The FMS monitors fuel consumption throughout the flight and provides real-time estimates of fuel remaining at various waypoints or destinations.
• Performance Calculations: The FMS can calculate optimal speeds for different phases of flight based on current conditions such as altitude, weight, and wind speed.

By automating these tasks, the FMS reduces pilot workload while improving overall efficiency and accuracy during flight operations.

Safety Enhancements

In addition to its advanced avionics systems, the King Air C90GTi includes several other safety features designed to protect both passengers and crew. These include:

• Dual Engine Design: With two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A engines powering the aircraft, redundancy is built into its propulsion system. In the unlikely event that one engine fails, the aircraft can continue flying safely on the remaining engine.
• Pressurization System: The cabin pressurization system ensures that passengers remain comfortable even at high altitudes by maintaining a safe and consistent cabin pressure throughout the flight.
• De-Icing Equipment: The King Air C90GTi is equipped with de-icing systems for both its wings and propellers. This allows it to safely operate in icy conditions without risking loss of lift or control.

These safety features make the King Air C90GTi one of the most reliable turboprops in its class. Whether flying over mountainous terrain or through adverse weather conditions, operators can rely on this aircraft’s robust design and cutting-edge technology to ensure a safe journey.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other turboprops in its category—such as the Piper Meridian or Daher TBM series—the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi stands out due to its combination of advanced avionics and proven reliability. While some competitors may offer slightly higher speeds or longer ranges, few can match the comprehensive suite of safety features and operational flexibility provided by the C90GTi.

As shown in this comparison table, while some competitors may offer higher performance metrics such as speed or range, few can match the operational flexibility provided by having two engines or offer an avionics suite as advanced as Collins Pro Line 21.

IV. Market Positioning and Use Cases

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi occupies a unique niche within the aviation industry, balancing performance, comfort, and operational flexibility. This aircraft is designed to appeal to a wide range of users, from corporate operators to private owners, offering the versatility to handle both business and personal travel needs. The C90GTi’s ability to operate efficiently in various environments makes it a popular choice for those seeking an aircraft that can perform well in both remote locations and busy metropolitan areas.

Business Aviation

In the realm of business aviation, the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is often considered a workhorse. Its combination of advanced avionics, reliable performance, and comfortable cabin makes it an ideal choice for companies that need to transport executives or teams between regional offices or remote locations. Some of the key advantages for business use include:

• Short Runway Performance: The C90GTi’s ability to take off and land on shorter runways opens up access to smaller airports that are often closer to business hubs or remote work sites. This can save significant time compared to flying into larger commercial airports.
• Advanced Avionics: The Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite reduces pilot workload and enhances safety, making it easier for corporate flight departments to manage operations efficiently.
• Comfortable Cabin: The pressurized cabin ensures that passengers remain comfortable even at high altitudes, while the noise reduction technology makes for a quieter flight experience. This is particularly important for business travelers who may need to work during the flight.

The King Air C90GTi is also an attractive option for companies that need an aircraft capable of handling diverse missions. Whether it’s flying into a remote mining site or shuttling executives between major cities, the C90GTi provides the flexibility needed for a wide range of business applications.

Private Ownership

For private owners, the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi offers a combination of practicality and luxury that few other turboprops can match. While some private owners may opt for jets due to their higher speeds, the C90GTi provides several advantages that make it an appealing choice for personal use:

• Cost Efficiency: Compared to light jets, the C90GTi offers lower operating costs while still providing excellent performance. Its fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs make it a more economical option for owners who fly frequently but don’t require the extreme speeds of a jet.
• Versatility: The ability to operate from shorter runways means that private owners can fly into smaller airports that are often closer to their final destination. This can be particularly useful for those who own vacation properties in remote areas or need to access locations with limited airport infrastructure.
• Comfort: The spacious cabin and quiet interior make the C90GTi a comfortable option for family trips or personal travel. The aircraft’s pressurized cabin ensures that passengers remain comfortable even on longer flights at higher altitudes.

Charter Operations

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is also popular among charter operators due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. For budget-conscious customers who may not need the speed of a jet but still want a comfortable and reliable aircraft, the C90GTi offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability.

• Competitive Range: With a range of 1,321 nautical miles (2,446 kilometers), the C90GTi can handle most regional flights without needing refueling stops. This makes it ideal for charter customers looking to travel between cities or regions without interruptions.
• Passenger Comfort: The cabin’s squared-oval design provides more headroom and shoulder room than many other turboprops in its class, ensuring that passengers enjoy a comfortable flight experience even on longer trips.
• Low Operating Costs: For charter operators, the C90GTi’s fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option compared to jets or larger turboprops.

Special Mission Capabilities

In addition to its use in business aviation and private ownership, the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is also well-suited for special mission applications. Its rugged design and ability to operate from unimproved airstrips make it ideal for missions such as:

• Medical Evacuation (Medevac): The spacious cabin can be configured to accommodate stretchers and medical equipment, making the C90GTi an excellent choice for air ambulance services.
• Surveillance and Patrol: The aircraft’s long range and ability to fly at lower altitudes make it suitable for surveillance missions such as border patrol or environmental monitoring.
• Cargo Transport: With its generous payload capacity and internal baggage volume of 48 cubic feet (1.37 cubic meters), the C90GTi can also be used for transporting cargo in remote areas where larger aircraft cannot operate.

Comparison with Competitors

When comparing the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi with other aircraft in its class—such as the Piper Meridian or Daher TBM series—it becomes clear that while some competitors may offer higher speeds or longer ranges, few can match the overall versatility and operational flexibility of the C90GTi.

While some competitors may offer slightly better performance metrics such as speed or range, few can match the comprehensive suite of safety features provided by having two engines or offer an avionics suite as advanced as Collins Pro Line 21.

Citations:
[1] https://media.txtav.com/195199-legendary-beechcraft-king-air-now-even-more-capable-with-launch-of-new-c90gtx
[2] https://www.aircharterservice.com/aircraft-guide/private/hawkerbeechcraftcorp-usa/beechcraftkingairc90gtgtx
[3] https://kingairmagazine.com/article/the-amazing-history-of-bb-1/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beechcraft_King_Air
[5] https://www.flyingmag.com/pilot-reports-turboprops-beechcraft-c90gt/
[6] https://www.aircraftcostcalculator.com/AircraftOperatingCosts/41/Beechcraft+King+Air+C90GTi
[7] https://txtav.com/en/journey/articles/articles/king-air-a-history
[8] https://vref.com/beechcraft-king-air-90
[9] https://kingairmagazine.com/article/revisiting-the-king-air-90-series/

V. Ownership Costs and Maintenance

Owning a Beechcraft King Air C90GTi comes with several financial considerations, including acquisition costs, operating expenses, and maintenance requirements. While the C90GTi is known for its reliability and relatively low operating costs compared to jets, it is still a sophisticated aircraft that requires regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Acquisition Cost

When the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi was first introduced in 2008, its price was approximately $3.9 million. While this price point positioned it as a premium turboprop aircraft, it was still more affordable than many light jets on the market at the time. Today, the resale value of a used King Air C90GTi varies depending on factors such as age, condition, and total flight hours. As of recent market estimates, used models typically range between $1.5 million to $2.5 million, making it an attractive option for operators looking for a high-performance aircraft at a reduced cost.

Operating Costs

The operating costs of the King Air C90GTi are generally lower than those of comparable jets, making it an economical choice for both private owners and charter operators. Key components of operating costs include fuel consumption, maintenance, insurance, and crew salaries.

Fuel Costs

Fuel is one of the largest ongoing expenses for any aircraft owner. The King Air C90GTi is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engines, which are known for their fuel efficiency. The aircraft has a fuel economy of 3.44 nautical miles per gallon (1.683 kilometers per liter), which translates to relatively low fuel consumption compared to jet-powered aircraft in its class.

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 384 gallons (1,454 liters)
• Range: 1,321 nautical miles (2,446 kilometers)

Given current fuel prices (which can fluctuate based on location and market conditions), operators can expect to spend between $500 to $700 per hour on fuel alone. This makes the King Air C90GTi more cost-effective than many light jets, which often consume significantly more fuel over similar distances.

Maintenance Costs

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of any aircraft. The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi benefits from the robustness of its Pratt & Whitney engines, which are renowned for their durability and long time between overhauls (TBO). However, like any high-performance aircraft, the C90GTi requires routine inspections and maintenance to keep it in top condition.

• Scheduled Maintenance: The C90GTi requires regular inspections based on flight hours and calendar time. These inspections are designed to catch potential issues before they become serious problems.
• Engine Overhaul: The PT6A engines typically require overhauls every 3,600 flight hours or every 12 years (whichever comes first). The cost of an engine overhaul can range from $200,000 to $300,000 per engine, depending on the scope of work required.
• Parts Replacement: Over time, various components such as avionics systems, landing gear, and cabin features may need replacement or upgrades. While Beechcraft parts are widely available due to the popularity of the King Air series, these costs can add up over time.

On average, owners can expect to spend between $300 to $500 per hour on maintenance-related expenses. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs that may arise during the aircraft’s operational life.

Insurance Costs

Insurance is another significant expense for aircraft owners. The cost of insuring a Beechcraft King Air C90GTi depends on several factors, including:

• The value of the aircraft
• The experience level of the pilots
• The intended use of the aircraft (private vs commercial operations)
• Geographic location

For private owners using their aircraft primarily for personal travel, annual insurance premiums typically range between $25,000 to $50,000. For charter operators or businesses using their aircraft for commercial purposes, premiums may be higher due to increased liability risks.

Crew Salaries

While some private owners may choose to pilot their own aircraft (assuming they have the necessary certifications), many will hire professional pilots to operate their King Air C90GTi. Crew salaries vary based on experience and location but typically range from:

• Captain: $80,000 to $120,000 per year
• First Officer (if applicable): $50,000 to $80,000 per year

In addition to salaries, owners must also account for other crew-related expenses such as training costs and travel accommodations during multi-day trips.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Like all aircraft, the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi experiences depreciation over time. However, due to its reputation for reliability and versatility, it tends to retain its value better than many other turboprops or light jets in its class.

Factors that influence depreciation include:

• Total flight hours
• Maintenance history
• Condition of the interior and exterior
• Avionics upgrades

As mentioned earlier, used King Air C90GTi models typically sell for between $1.5 million to $2.5 million, depending on these factors. Owners who maintain their aircraft well and invest in regular upgrades (such as avionics updates) can expect higher resale values when it comes time to sell or trade in their aircraft.

Financing Options

For those interested in purchasing a Beechcraft King Air C90GTi but unable or unwilling to pay the full purchase price upfront, several financing options are available through banks or specialized aviation lenders:

• Leasing: Some operators may choose to lease a King Air C90GTi rather than purchasing it outright. Leasing allows operators to use the aircraft without committing large amounts of capital upfront while still enjoying many of the benefits of ownership.
• Loans: Aviation loans are available through various financial institutions that specialize in financing high-value assets like aircraft. Loan terms typically range from 5 to 15 years with interest rates varying based on creditworthiness and market conditions.

Tax Considerations

Aircraft ownership also comes with various tax implications that can affect overall costs:

• Depreciation Deductions: In many countries (including the United States), business owners can deduct depreciation expenses related to their aircraft from their taxable income under certain conditions.
• Operational Deductions: Expenses related to operating an aircraft—such as fuel costs or crew salaries—may also be deductible if the aircraft is used primarily for business purposes.

Owners should consult with tax professionals who specialize in aviation-related tax laws to ensure they are taking full advantage of any available deductions while remaining compliant with local regulations.

Conclusion

The Beechcraft King Air C90GTi is a versatile and reliable turboprop that offers exceptional performance across a wide range of applications—from business aviation and private ownership to special missions like medical evacuation or surveillance operations. Its advanced avionics suite (Collins Pro Line 21), coupled with its robust Pratt & Whitney engines and comfortable cabin design make it an attractive option for operators who need flexibility without sacrificing comfort or safety.

While owning a King Air C90GTi does come with significant financial responsibilities—including acquisition costs around $3.9 million when new (and lower for used models), ongoing operating expenses like fuel consumption (~$500-$700/hour), maintenance (~$300-$500/hour), insurance ($25k-$50k annually), and crew salaries—its long-term reliability ensures that owners get excellent value for their investment.

Whether you’re a corporate operator looking for an efficient regional transport solution or a private owner seeking an all-purpose personal plane capable of handling both short hops into remote airstrips as well as longer cross-country flights—the Beechcraft King Air C90GTi remains one of the most respected names in aviation today.