Beechcraft King Air 350i

It needs about 1,006 m (3,300 ft) to take off and 821 m (2,700 ft) to land in standard conditions, so it can use many regional airports that jets cannot. London City requires a specific steep approach approval, recorded in the flight manual and the operator's approvals, which not every aircraft holds. Gstaad, with a 1,400 m runway at 3,300 ft above sea level, is generally possible with careful attention to payload and weather.

Its range with IFR reserves is 1,440 nm (2,667 km). That is enough for direct flights such as Geneva to Marrakech, London to Athens or New York to Dallas. Some light jets go further, but the 350i covers most regional and medium distance trips for business or leisure without a fuel stop.

Often, yes, compared with a Citation CJ2 or Phenom 300, because its turboprop engines burn less fuel. A jet will be quicker in the cruise, but the 350i combines a roomy cabin with access to short runways. The final cost depends on the route, dates, aircraft positioning and operator, and our advisors price each trip individually.

The King Air has two engines where the PC-12 has one, which gives it an added safety margin, and it seats eight against the PC-12's seven. The Avanti is quickest, at about 402 knots, with a wider and taller cabin that feels closer to a light jet, although it usually carries fewer people. The PC-12 tends to be the most economical, while the Avanti and the 350i cost about the same.