Socata TBM 900 vs Beechcraft King Air 90
The Beechcraft King Air (90 or 200) and Daher TBM are different-class turboprops — the King Air is a pressurised twin-turboprop (~250-290 kt); the TBM is a single-engine turboprop (~320-330 kt with TBM 930/940) on one PT6.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Socata TBM 900 | Beechcraft King Air 90 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $2,700,000 – $3,050,000 | $229,000 – $3,699,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Turboprop | Multi Engine Turboprop |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | — | 215 kts (398 km/h) |
| Range | — | 1,060 nm (1,963 km) |
| Useful Load | — | 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) |
| Engines | — | 2 x Turboprop |
Which Should You Buy: Socata TBM 900 or Beechcraft King Air 90?
Bottom line: Choose the TBM for the most efficient single-engine high-performance machine, single-pilot ease and higher cruise. Step up to the King Air when you need twin-engine redundancy, larger cabin and the operational profile of a true cabin-class turboprop.
Pick the TBM 900 if…
Pick the King Air 90 if…
- Budget matters — from $229,000 vs $2,700,000, you save ~$2,471,000.
- More inventory — 108 listings vs 14.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Socata TBM 900 or Beechcraft King Air 90?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The King Air 90 cruises at 215 kts with 1,060 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Socata TBM 900: from $2,990,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Socata TBM 900 and Beechcraft King Air 90?
King Air 90 engine: Pratt & Whitney PT6A-6.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
King Air 90: 10 seats / 2,700 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data