Latest Special-mission Textron Beechcraft King Air Debuts in Paris | Aviation International News

Paris Air Show 2025

Latest Special-mission King Air Debuts in Paris

The King Air 360-based aircraft builds on experience with the lighter multi-mission King Air 260

Textron — © Textron

By David Donald • Contributor - UK

June 9, 2025

Textron Aviation’s newest Beechcraft King Air multi-mission demonstrator is making its international debut at the company’s pavilion during the Paris Air Show. The aircraft is based on the current King Air 360 version and is outfitted with extended-range fuel tanks, wing hardpoints installed in the factory, and a large cargo door. The latter allows the aircraft to be used for freight and air ambulance operations, as well as providing for the installation of large items of equipment.

King Air variants have been in use for a wide range of military and civilian special missions for decades, and the latest offering is able to be tailored to many roles, from aeromedical tasks through to aerial survey and maritime surveillance. A factory-installed option is an extended nose that can house a variety of sensors, including a retractable electro-optical/infrared sensor turret of up to 20 inches in diameter.

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