King Air 250 vs King Air 350: Comparison

King Air 250 vs King Air 350: Comparison

When it comes to turboprop aircraft, the King Air series from Beechcraft stands out for its reliability, performance, and versatility. Let’s compare the King Air 250 and the King Air 350 to understand their differences and strengths:

1. Performance:

• King Air 250: The King Air 250 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-52 engines, delivering a maximum cruise speed of approximately 302 knots and a range of around 1,720 nautical miles with four passengers. It offers impressive climb performance and short-field capabilities.
• King Air 350: With more powerful engines, the King Air 350 achieves a higher maximum cruise speed of approximately 312 knots and an extended range of about 1,806 nautical miles with four passengers. It offers similar climb performance but with slightly improved runway performance due to its increased power.

2. Size and Capacity:

• King Air 250: The King Air 250 typically accommodates up to 9 passengers in its spacious cabin, with a cabin length of approximately 16.8 feet. It offers comfortable seating and ample headroom for passengers.
• King Air 350: With a larger cabin, the King Air 350 can accommodate up to 11 passengers in its cabin, which is approximately 19.5 feet long. It provides additional space for passengers and luggage, making it ideal for longer journeys or larger groups.

3. Avionics and Technology:

• Both the King Air 250 and the King Air 350 are equipped with state-of-the-art avionics suites, including the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion system. This advanced avionics package offers enhanced situational awareness, navigation capabilities, and integrated touchscreen displays for improved pilot interface and efficiency.

4. Operating Costs:

• Due to its smaller size and slightly lower fuel consumption, the King Air 250 generally has lower operating costs compared to the King Air 350. However, the specific operating costs can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices, maintenance requirements, and utilization.

5. Purchase Price:

• The King Air 250 typically has a lower purchase price compared to the King Air 350, making it a more cost-effective option for operators with budget constraints or those seeking a smaller aircraft for their missions.

6. Mission Flexibility:

• Both aircraft offer excellent mission flexibility, with the ability to operate from short and unimproved runways, access remote locations, and provide reliable performance in various weather conditions. The choice between the King Air 250 and the King Air 350 ultimately depends on the specific mission requirements, passenger capacity, and budget considerations.

In summary, while the King Air 250 and the King Air 350 share many similarities in terms of performance, technology, and mission capabilities, there are distinct differences in size, capacity, operating costs, and purchase price that prospective buyers should consider when choosing between these two exceptional turboprop aircraft.