King Air 350 multi-role trainer and transport
The Royal Australian Air Force King Air 350 is a versatile aircraft primarily used for Air Combat Officer and Airborne Electronic Analyst training. It is also used for low-level tactical and maritime operations training, and as a general transport.
The King Air 350 is a twin-engine turboprop with two crew and six passenger seats.
No 32 Squadron at RAAF Base East Sale, Victoria, operates the King Air 350 as the School of Aviation Warfare training aircraft, with the student in the co-pilot’s seat. Students are being trained for a variety of roles including low-level tactical fast-jet operations and surveillance.
Low-level tactical and maritime training flights are typically conducted 200 to 500 feet above ground level. A jump seat may be fitted centrally behind the pilot and co-pilot to allow an instructor to monitor the student and assist the pilot if required. If the aft navigation consoles are fitted, there is only seating for four passengers.
As a general transport, the aircraft has carried up to six passengers to destinations including Broome, Darwin, Sydney and Hobart. As a transport, the King Air 350 is flown between 25 and 35,000 feet for optimum fuel economy.
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| Manufacturer | Raytheon (Beechcraft) |
|---|---|
| Role | Multi-role transport, low-level tactical and maritime navigation trainer |
| Crew | Two pilots, or pilot and navigator/observer, or various crews in training roles |
| Engine | Two Pratt and Whitney PT6A-60A turboprops driving 4-blade propellers (1050 horsepower each) |
| Airframe | Length: 14.22m, height: 4.40m |
| Wingspan | 17.65m |
| Weight | 6849kg (basic operations), 1600kg payload |
| Speed | 570km/h (normal operations) |
| Range | 3400km |
| Ceiling | 35,000 feet |
| Accommodation | Up to six passengers |