Textron Aviation has introduced its new multi-engine military trainer, the Beechcraft King Air 260C, at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 (FIA). Based on the versatile and reliable Beechcraft King Air 260, the aircraft is on display from July 22 to 26 at Stand A031.
This next-generation training aircraft was selected in 2023 to modernize aircrew training for the U.S. Navy’s Multi-Engine Training System (METS) program. Deliveries began on April 22, 2024, for up to 64 METS aircraft contracted by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). Additionally, Canada announced on May 29 at CANSEC that it will acquire the Beechcraft King Air 260 for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) under the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
“The Beechcraft King Air 260 offers exceptional value for multi-engine military training due to its acquisition and operating costs, combined with excellent speed, range, and payload capacity,” said Bob Gibbs, Vice President of Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation. “This next-generation training aircraft currently serves the U.S. Navy fleet and is ready to support the modernization of multi-engine military training worldwide.”
The aircraft’s capabilities include options for TACAN (air-to-air) systems, angle of attack (AOA) indicators, V/UHF radio, digital audio system, engine trend monitoring, condition-based maintenance, observer/jump seat, mission passenger seats, and full-face oxygen masks.
For more information, visit the official Textron Aviation website.
