The Beechcraft King Air B100 is a remarkable aircraft with a rich history and a dedicated following. While it may not be the most well-known member of the illustrious King Air family, the B100 holds a unique place in aviation history, primarily due to its distinctive powerplant. Unlike its siblings, which are powered by the ubiquitous Pratt & Whitney PT6 engines, the B100 is equipped with Garrett TPE331 turboprop engines, giving it a character all its own.

A Unique History

The King Air B100’s story begins in the early 1970s, a time of great success for Beechcraft’s King Air line. However, a labor strike at Pratt & Whitney threatened to halt the production of the popular PT6 engines, potentially crippling Beechcraft’s operations. In a strategic move to diversify its engine suppliers, Beechcraft decided to adapt the King Air 100 series to accommodate the Garrett TPE331 engine. This decision gave birth to the King Air B100, which first took to the skies in March 1975.

While the B100 was a capable aircraft, it faced stiff competition from its own family, particularly the larger and more powerful King Air 200. As a result, the B100 had a relatively short production run, ending in 1983 after 137 units were built. Despite its limited production, the B100 carved out a niche for itself, especially among operators who appreciated the performance and characteristics of the TPE331 engines.

Design and Features

The King Air B100 is a pressurized, twin-engine turboprop with a low-wing design and a conventional tail. It features a retractable tricycle landing gear with dual wheels on the main gear, providing stability and reliability. The aircraft is known for its robust construction and dependable performance, making it a trusted workhorse for a variety of missions.

One of the standout features of the B100 is its spacious cabin. With a length of over 16 feet, the cabin can be configured to seat up to seven passengers comfortably, with the option of a belted lavatory seat. The use of four-bladed propellers significantly reduces cabin noise, creating a more pleasant and productive environment for passengers.

Performance and Specifications

The King Air B100 is powered by two Honeywell (formerly Garrett) TPE331-6-252B engines, each producing 715 shaft horsepower. These engines provide the B100 with impressive performance, including a maximum cruise speed of 265 knots and a normal range of 800 nautical miles. The aircraft has a service ceiling of 28,000 feet, although it is most efficient at altitudes between 21,000 and 22,000 feet.

Here are some key specifications for the Beechcraft King Air B100:

• Exterior Height: 15 ft 5 in
• Wing Span: 45 ft 11 in
• Length: 39 ft 11 in
• Cabin Height: 4 ft 10 in
• Cabin Width: 4 ft 6 in
• Cabin Length: 16 ft 8 in
• Max Takeoff Weight: 11,800 lbs.
• Max Cruise Speed: 265 kts
• Normal Range: 800 nm

The King Air B100 Today

Decades after its production ended, the Beechcraft King Air B100 remains a popular choice for a variety of operators. Its versatility, respectable operating costs, and good payload capacity make it an attractive option for charter companies, air ambulance services, and private owners. The B100’s unique combination of King Air heritage and Garrett power ensures that it will continue to be a valued and respected aircraft for years to come.

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