NOAA’s Beechcraft King Air 350CER, is a versatile, twin-engine, extended-range turboprop aircraft. It primarily supports coastal mapping and emergency response missions.

Equipped with the latest aircraft technology, this King Air Special Mission aircraft’s main feature is the two large, downward-facing sensor ports that can support a wide variety of remote sensing systems, including digital cameras, multispectral and hyperspectral sensors, and topographic and bathymetric LIDAR systems. Other aircraft features include a cargo door, bubble windows, two window blanks, and additional mission power.

Normal aircraft configuration includes seating for two pilots, a sensor operator, and 1-2 additional crew members, depending on the amount of sensor equipment installed. With extended range capabilities, this aircraft can collect critical information while remaining airborne for 7 to 8 hours depending on fuel and payload. The dual-sensor port modification allows simultaneous data collection from multiple sensors, enhancing sensor capabilities. Optical grade glass plates in the sensor ports allow the cabin to remain pressurized; the optical plates can be removed and the aircraft operated unpressurized.

NOAA's King Air primarily supports the National Geodetic Survey's Remote Sensing Division.