King Air 350
King Air 350 Buyer’s Guide
This guide is dedicated to companies, owners, or operators considering the acquisition of a King Air 350. It details the key aspects for an informed decision.
Here you will find information on acquisition price, operating costs, and the current state of the new and pre-owned markets. We will also cover expert opinions.
The following sections will answer your fundamental questions for integrating this aircraft into your fleet or for your personal needs.
What is the price of a King Air 350?
The list price for a new King Air 350 (2025 model) is approximately $7.78 million. On the pre-owned market, a recent model like a 2019 King Air 350i can reach $7.7 million. Older King Air 350s (2008-2014) are available between $3.3 million and $5.1 million. The average observed pre-owned price is $4.2 million.
What is the availability and transaction time?
The pre-owned King Air 350 market is active. About a dozen aircraft, covering manufacturing years from 1996 to 2019, are generally available. Transactions for a pre-owned aircraft typically take 2 to 6 months. For a new aircraft, delivery times can range from 6 to 18 months, depending on customization options and production planning.
What is the residual value of the King Air 350?
The King Air 350 offers strong residual value. After 5 to 10 years, the aircraft generally retains 55% to 65% of its original price. A 15 to 20-year-old model trades between $2.4 million and $3.5 million, representing 30% to 45% of the new value.
Concrete acquisition examples
- Recent purchase (2022): A 2008 King Air 350, with approximately 5,000 flight hours and interior renovations, sold for $3.8 million.
- Purchase (2023): A 2018 King Air 350i, in excellent condition and low mileage, was acquired for $7.5 million.
Initial acquisition budget estimate
| Item | Order of Magnitude (USD) | Notes |
|---|
| Purchase Price | 3.3 M to 7.8 M | Depending on year and aircraft condition. |
| Inspection Fees | 15,000 to 50,000 | Thorough pre-purchase inspection. |
| Legal/Brokerage Fees | 50,000 to 200,000 | Represents 1-3% of purchase price. |
| Total Initial Budget | 3.4 M to 8.05 M | Excludes operating costs and insurance. |
This budget is an estimate for the acquisition alone. It does not include operating costs, insurance, or crew training.
What are the recurring operating costs?
Annual operating costs range from $655,000 to $1.26 million for 200 to 400 hours of use per year. The hourly cost is between $2,000 and over $4,200.
Fixed expenses
- Crew: The salary of a professional pilot and co-pilot represents a significant portion.
- Hangar: Aircraft parking costs vary by airport and region.
- Insurance: Liability and hull insurance are mandatory.
- Training: Regular training is necessary for the crew to maintain qualifications.
Variable expenses
- Fuel: The King Air 350 consumes an average of 140 to 180 gallons (530 to 680 liters) per flight hour.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections, engine maintenance, and unforeseen repairs constitute a variable portion.
- Fees: Landing, overflight, and navigation fees affect the total cost.
What are the major maintenance milestones?
King Air 350 maintenance is based on phase inspections and periodic engine visits.
- Phase inspections: An inspection is required every 200 flight hours. A complete cycle of four phases must be completed every 24 months.
- Minor engine inspection: Every 400 flight hours.
- Engine hot section: Every 1,800 flight hours.
- Engine overhaul: Every 3,600 flight hours.
- Wing bolt inspection: Every 5 years.
Comparison of annual operating costs
This table presents an estimate of annual costs based on aircraft usage. These figures may vary depending on fuel prices, operational location, and aircraft specifics.
| Annual Usage | Fixed Costs (USD) | Variable Costs (USD) | Total Cost (USD) | Hourly Cost (USD) |
|---|
| 150 hours | 915,000 | 174,500 | 1,089,500 | 7,263 |
| 300 hours | 915,000 | 349,000 | 1,264,000 | 4,213 |
| 500 hours | 915,000 | 581,600 | 1,496,600 | 2,993 |
Should you buy or charter a King Air 350?
The decision between buying and chartering depends heavily on the planned annual usage of the aircraft. The hourly cost of chartering a King Air 350 is generally between $2,000 and $2,500. The total hourly ownership costs, including depreciation and financing, are approximately $4,215 for 300 flight hours per year. Excluding financing and depreciation, the hourly ownership cost is reduced to approximately $2,010.
Usage scenarios and cost comparison
| Annual Usage | Total Annual Cost (Ownership) | Total Annual Cost (Charter) | Difference (Ownership - Charter) |
|---|
| 150 hours | $1,089,500 | $300,000 | + $789,500 |
| 300 hours | $1,264,000 | $600,000 | + $664,000 |
| 500 hours | $1,496,600 | $1,000,000 | + $496,600 |
*Assumptions for charter: $2,000/hour
Analysis
For low usage (less than 150 hours per year), chartering is the most economical option. The fixed costs of ownership — crew salaries, hangar, insurance, and regular maintenance — heavily impact the hourly cost when flight hours are low.
As usage increases, hourly ownership costs become more competitive, even lower than chartering if depreciation and capital cost are excluded. Ownership is justified for those who fly frequently and can optimize aircraft utilization, or who can offset costs by chartering out the aircraft themselves.
If you want to know more about King Air 350 charter
Where to look for a King Air 350 for purchase?
The search for a King Air 350, whether new or pre-owned, is primarily conducted through specialized channels.
| Name | URL | Offer Type |
|---|
| Controller | https://www.controller.com | Pre-owned and new aircraft |
| Trade-a-Plane | https://www.trade-a-plane.com | Pre-owned and new aircraft |
| GlobalAir | https://www.globalair.com | Listings, buyer’s guide |
| Aircraft Exchange | https://www.ae.aerobay.com | Pre-owned aircraft, brokerage |
| AvBuyer | https://www.avbuyer.com | Pre-owned aircraft, brokerage |
| Textron Aviation (New) | https://www.textronaviation.com | New, authorized distributors |
| Jetcraft | https://www.jetcraft.com | Pre-owned, luxury aircraft |
These platforms are used by direct sellers, dealers, and aviation brokers to list their aircraft.
Aviation brokers and consultants
Specialized brokers can simplify the acquisition process. They offer access to exclusive listings and can manage all stages, from inspection to negotiation, through to the completion of the sale.
- Online Platforms: They offer great visibility and a wide choice of aircraft. They are suitable for buyers with good market knowledge and acquisition processes.
- Brokers: They provide valuable expertise, discretion, and time savings, especially for less experienced buyers or those seeking a turnkey service. Brokers can negotiate better prices.
Owner and operator reviews
Feedback from King Air 350 owners highlights various aspects of operating this aircraft.
“We chose the King Air 350 for its reliability and versatility. It’s ideal for our regional trips with multiple passengers and light cargo. Operating costs are reasonable for its category, and maintenance is well-managed thanks to an extensive support network. It’s a true workhorse.”
- Jean, Director of Air Operations, Quebec, Canada.
“While the King Air 350 is undoubtedly an excellent versatile aircraft, I was surprised by the cost of certain spare parts and occasional waiting times for specific components during major inspections. Furthermore, fuel consumption, though predictable, remains a significant budget item for intensive use. It’s important to anticipate ancillary expenses.”
- Marc, Owner Pilot, Hangar B6, Miami, United States.
Discover many reviews of the King Air 350
Take action: Realize your King Air 350 project
The acquisition of a King Air 350 represents a significant, yet well-considered, investment for businesses and individuals demanding performance, reliability, and versatility. You now have the keys to assess whether this aircraft aligns with your operational needs and budget.
The next step is to refine your project based on your usage profile. We recommend that you:
- Contact a specialized business aviation broker: An expert will guide you in selecting a suitable aircraft, negotiating the price, and all administrative and technical procedures.
- Request a personalized cost estimate: Get a precise projection of detailed operating and ownership costs to define the most economical solution, purchase or charter.
- Plan a visit and pre-purchase inspection: Evaluate the aircraft’s condition yourself or with the help of an expert.
Don’t wait, initiate the steps towards acquiring your King Air 350 and optimize your travel.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions from King Air 350 Buyers
How to finance the purchase of a King Air 350?
Financing can be obtained through specialized bank loans, operational or financial leasing solutions. There are brokers and credit institutions dedicated to business aviation.
What are the registration procedures?
Registration varies by country. A file must be submitted to the civil aviation authority (e.g., FAA in the USA, EASA in Europe). A specialized lawyer can facilitate the process.
What is the typical lifespan of a King Air 350 airframe?
The King Air 350 airframe is designed for thousands of flight hours. Its lifespan is determined by hours and cycles, with regular inspections. With good maintenance, it is very long.
What are the main points of vigilance during a pre-purchase inspection?
Check maintenance history, look for corrosion, engine condition (trends), propellers, avionics systems, and landing gear. A rigorous inspection is essential.
Is the King Air 350 subject to specific regulations?
Yes, as a complex commercial or private transport aircraft, it is subject to the air regulations of the local civil aviation authority (e.g., Part 135 or Part 91 in the USA).
What are the technical challenges to anticipate during maintenance?
Challenges include the availability of certain parts for older models, the complexity of modern avionics systems, and compliance with the latest airworthiness directives.
How to manage the crew and aircraft operations?
It is possible to directly employ the crew or entrust management to a specialized company. The latter handles operations, maintenance, and flight crew.
Approved modifications (STCs) are sometimes available to increase fuel capacity, improve avionics, or optimize engine performance.
