The 1900 is the result of more than 50 years of design history. Beechcraft actively entered the scheduled passenger and cargo markets through development of the Beechcraft 99 in the 1960s. The 1900 provided significant growth and expansion into the 19-passenger market and the 5,500 lb (2,494 kg) cargo market. 1900s are characterized by:

  • Proven product, a growth variant of the Beechcraft King Air
  • High performance, especially in hot environments and/or when short runways are a mission consideration
  • High reliability with low maintenance requirements
  • Stand-up cabin (1900D), pressurization and generous baggage capacity, including a dedicated cargo door

Leading characteristics of the Beechcraft 99 and 1900:

1900 Variants Characteristics
99 Serials U-1 through U-239 A 15 passenger commuter aircraft developed as a variant of the Beechcraft Queen Air.
1900C Serials UB-1 through UB-74 New design based on the Beechcraft King Air, with 19 passenger capacity, an aft cargo door and bladder wing fuel, capacity 425 U.S. gallons.
1900C Serials UC-1 through UC-174 Fuel system redesign to wet wing with capacity 667 U.S. gallons. Aircraft is also flown by military services as the UD-series (C-12J).
1900D Serials UE1 through UE-439 Stand-up cabin, EFIS cockpit, more powerful engines and increased performance. Certified to FAR 23 Commuter Rules through Amendment 34.

Nearly 700 Beechcraft 1900 aircraft have been produced, and are operating in over 50 countries around the world.