Beechcraft King Air C90 vs Pilatus PC-12

Textron Aviation Β· Pilatus

Quick answer

Beechcraft King Air C90 vs Pilatus PC-12: Pilatus PC-12 wins on more measurable specs (4 of 5 categories). Beechcraft King Air C90 has 1,260 NM range and 272 kt cruise. Pilatus PC-12 has 1,803 NM range and 280 kt cruise.

Head-to-head specs

Beechcraft King Air C90
Pilatus PC-12
Manufacturer
Textron Aviation
Pilatus
Type
turboprop
turboprop
Engines
2
1
Max Pax
7 pax
9 pax
Range
1,260 nm
1,803 nm
Cruise Speed
272 kt
280 kt
Service Ceiling
30,000 ft
30,000 ft
MTOW
4,581 kg
4,740 kg
Type Rating
Required
Required

Beechcraft King Air C90

Entry-level King Air variant popular for owner-operators. Good stepping stone from piston twins to turboprop operations.

Full Beechcraft King Air C90 guide β†’

Pilatus PC-12

Versatile single-engine turboprop excelling in utility, corporate, and RFDS roles. Outstanding short-field performance.

Full Pilatus PC-12 guide β†’

Frequently asked questions

Which is faster, Beechcraft King Air C90 or Pilatus PC-12?

Pilatus PC-12 cruises faster β€” Beechcraft King Air C90 at 272 kt vs Pilatus PC-12 at 280 kt.

Which has longer range?

Pilatus PC-12 flies farther β€” Beechcraft King Air C90 1,260 NM vs Pilatus PC-12 1,803 NM.

Do both require a type rating?

Beechcraft King Air C90: Type rating required. Pilatus PC-12: Type rating required.

Which is harder to fly?

Difficulty depends on transition experience. At least one of these requires a type rating, which involves a 4-6 week course in a Level D simulator.

Type rating prep with Rotate

Aircraft systems, performance & operating procedures for FAA, EASA, ICAO.

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