At the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in May, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation introduced the Beechcraft King Air B200GT, the latest evolution of the popular twin-turbine Beechcraft King Air 200 series. The new, more powerful King Air B200GT is now certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. Featuring a 305-knot max cruise speed, the upgraded Beechcraft King Air B200GT enjoys a nearly 20-knot speed increase and climbs faster to its intended cruising altitudes than the King Air B200 it replaces.

Powering the improvement is the installation of two new, recently certified Pratt and Whitney PT6A-52 engines designed specifically for the King Air B200GT. The PT6A-52 engine was derived by mating the turbine section of the 1,050-shp capable PT6A-60A found on the King Air 350 with the existing King Air B200 PT6A-42 gearbox. The result is an engine that holds its 850-shp flat rating to a much higher altitude, improving climb and cruise performance under almost all flight scenarios. And because of its common PT6A lineage, it also enters the market with the same 3,600-hour TBO (Time Before Overhaul) as the other Beechcraft King Air engines. The new engine also eliminates the 10,000 foot TOFA (Takeoff Field Altitude) limitation found on the King Air B200.  

"Continuing the next logical step in the evolution of the Beechcraft King Air series, the Beechcraft King Air B200GT builds on one of the most successful business aircraft of all time," said Brad Hatt, president, Commercial Sales. "The addition of newly developed Pratt and Whitney engines moves the entire flight envelope of the King Air B200GT higher and faster than the B200, ensuring that the new model will continue to lead this dynamic market segment for many years to come." 

Built using the proven and reliable design of the King Air 200-series airframe, the King Air B200GT seats up to nine passengers in a roomy, squared-oval cabin allowing greater passenger head, shoulder and leg room, as well as space for passenger amenities and equipment. It also features a heated and pressurized baggage storage area that is easily accessed during flight and a fully enclosed aft private lavatory. The King Air B200GT continues to be the product of choice for companies, governments and individuals around the world.

Pursuit of international certifications will immediately follow with EASA, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, India, Argentina and Guatemala expected by the end of the year.