There’s only one King Air Gathering The annual King Air Gathering is the only event of its kind dedicated to the Beechcraft King Air. Owners, operators, pilots, trainers, maintenance providers, FBOs, manufacturers and other industry folk gather in an intimate setting for learning, networking and socializing opportunities. KAG’s focus, size and format make this truly…
At King Air Academy, we see a wide range of pilots for training: pilots who just passed their multiengine checkride to pilots with thousands of hours in King Airs. Let’s look at what separates the owner-pilot from the professional pilot. Checklist use The first differentiator to jump out is checklist use. This truly separates professional…
The pioneering airframe manufacturer began operations in 1925 and its legacy has greatly outlived its six-year lifespan. During a cold December in 1924, Walter H. Beech and Lloyd C. Stearman contemplated forming a new airplane company, but they needed help. They met with their friend Clyde V. Cessna, one of America’s true aviation pioneers, who…
It’s late June and we’re standing on the dock of Isle Royale Seaplanes’ home base, Torch Lake, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Our pilot is chatting with his six waiting passengers while passing out life vests. He’s trying to sort out who should be seated where within the vintage De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver that will carry…
In December, Collins Aerospace announced a comprehensive avionics upgrade and modernization program for Beechcraft King Air aircraft and two of its most popular systems. Designed to enhance aircraft operability, safety and efficiency, the initiative introduces several new safety features to both avionics suites and makes it possible to convert King Air 200 and 300 aircraft…
For many King Air pilots, most of our flying utilizes the Global Positioning System. What would happen if the entire National Airspace System (NAS) relied solely on GPS and the system broke down due to technical issues or nefarious intent? GPS is susceptible to interference, jamming, spoofing or solar events, any of which can disrupt…
The King Air insurance market has been on a tumultuous journey over the past several years with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. This has not necessarily been the most expensive hard market the King Air community has navigated through, though it has certainly been the longest. Since 2018, most of you have likely seen…
King Air Gathering co-hosts King Air Nation and BLR Aerospace announced the speakers, companion activities and a full list of educational and networking events attendees can expect during the 2025 King Air Gathering happening March 19-22 in Phoenix, Arizona. “King Air Gathering is perfect for fueling your knowledge and building connections,” said Carl Davis, vice…
This is my last article for King Air magazine. I have been a regular contributor here since 2011 … 13 years. The magazine has provided a perfect forum for sharing my 50-plus years of King Air flying and instructing experience. I will always be grateful for the leadership and guidance of the magazine’s editor, Kim…
Save the date and start making plans to attend King Air Gathering 2025, the only event of its size dedicated solely to the Beechcraft King Air. Co-hosts King Air Nation and BLR Aerospace are finalizing an agenda that embraces what past attendees say they want most when connecting, collaborating and sharing a passion for aviation…