Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced the debut of its new military multi-engine training aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA). Built upon the versatile and reliable Beechcraft King Air 260, this next-generation training aircraft marks its first appearance in Europe, showcasing from July 22 through July 26 at Stand A031. Military delegations, media, and aviation enthusiasts will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the advanced capabilities of this state-of-the-art aircrew training aircraft, which is currently serving the United States Navy’s fleet.
Selected in 2023 after a rigorous competition, this aircraft modernizes the United States Navy’s Multi-Engine Training System (METS) program. Deliveries of the contracted up to 64 METS aircraft, managed by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), commenced on April 22, 2024. The aircraft’s prominence was further highlighted when Canada announced on May 29th at the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries’ annual defence industry tradeshow (CANSEC) its decision to 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 boasts a range of specific capabilities, including factory options for TACAN (air-to-air), angle of attack (AOA), V/UHF radio, digital audio system, engine trend monitoring, condition-based maintenance plus, observer/jump seat, passenger mission seats, and full-face oxygen masks. These features position it as a comprehensive solution for military multi-engine training worldwide.
Textron Aviation’s return to FIA underscores its industry leadership, with over 1,700 Cessna and Beechcraft turbine aircraft based in Europe and more than 250,000 aircraft delivered globally. Known for their high performance, versatility, and low operating costs, Textron Aviation’s products are ideal for a wide array of special missions including air ambulance, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), utility transport, aerial survey, flight inspection, and training.