Peruvian Air Force enhances medical evacuations with new US King Air 360CHW aircraft.

On October 29, 2024, the Peruvian Air Force received its first US-made Beechcraft King Air 360CHW, a multi-mission aircraft acquired from Textron Aviation. This delivery, conducted as part of a public investment project, marks the first of two units planned under contracts valued at approximately $13.3 million and $14 million, respectively. The second aircraft is expected to arrive in 2025. The aircraft is intended for use in aeromedical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations, as well as troop and cargo transport, command and control, and other missions.
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Textron Aviation developed the King Air 360CHW for diverse applications, including air ambulance services, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and utility transport. (Picture source: Peruvian MoD)

The King Air 360CHW was delivered at Textron Aviation’s facilities in Wichita, Kansas, with representatives from both Textron and the Peruvian Air Force in attendance. The Peruvian Air Force identified this acquisition as part of a broader effort to modernize its fleet and improve its operational capabilities in diverse and challenging geographical conditions. The aircraft was formally received at Las Palmas Air Base, where it will serve under Grupo Aéreo N°8.

The aircraft's MEDEVAC configuration includes two stretchers, life-support systems, cold chain equipment for organ transport, and incubators for neonatal patients. Its flexible interior design allows for reconfiguration to accommodate up to 11 passengers or cargo as needed. The King Air 360CHW also has short takeoff capabilities, requiring 1,006 meters for departure, making it suitable for operations in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

The acquisition of this aircraft is part of Peru's strategy to strengthen light air transport services and address operational needs in regions with limited accessibility. It is registered as FAP-345, with serial number FM-119, and will primarily serve from Base Aérea del Callao. The aircraft joins existing King Air platforms in the Peruvian Air Force and Navy, including those used for transport and maritime surveillance roles.

Originally manufactured by Beechcraft, the King Air 360CHW possesses a maximum takeoff weight of 6,804 kilograms, a range of 3,345 kilometers, and a cruising speed of 578 km/h. The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60A engines, each producing 1,050 shaft horsepower. Its avionics system includes the Pro Line Fusion platform with three 14-inch touchscreen displays, synthetic vision technology, and an auto-throttle system. Additional features include a MultiScan weather radar, digital pressurization controller, and noise-reduction technology.

Textron Aviation developed the King Air 360CHW for diverse applications, including air ambulance services, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and utility transport. The model was introduced to the international market in 2020 and is used by various government, military, and commercial entities worldwide. The delivery of the second King Air 360CHW to the Peruvian Air Force is anticipated in the first half of 2025, with no reported delays.

During the handover ceremony, attended by senior Peruvian officials including President Dina Boluarte Zegarra and Defense Minister Walter Astudillo Chávez, the operational benefits of the aircraft were highlighted. The King Air 360CHW is expected to enhance the Peruvian Air Force's ability to conduct medical evacuations and other critical missions in areas with challenging terrain, such as the Amazon rainforest, coastal regions, and highlands.