See more information from the Business Air News Handbook
Press Release
Issued by MT-Propeller .
March 28, 2025
The engine upgrade of the Piper M500 Meridian by MT-Propeller, which was presented at last year's Aero Friedrichshafen expo, has now also received the FAA approval in addition to its existing EASA approval.
The replacement of the original PT6A-42A propeller turbine with a PT6A-135A propeller turbine follows MT-Propeller's declared goal of making general aviation aircraft quieter and more efficient with new propeller systems, and in the case of the Piper M500 Meridian with the additional replacement of the engine.
The advantages of the engine replacement are:
Greater efficiency: The maximum range with maximum fuel (ISA, MTOW, no wind, one pilot, 45 min fuel reserve) is as follows;
- 203 ktas cruise speed: 1,340 nm (2,479 km) at 30,000 ft
- 203 ktas cruise speed: 1,290 nm (2,387 km) at 28,000 ft
- 240 ktas cruise speed: 1,160 nm (2,146km) at 28,000 ft
- 258 ktas cruise speed: 960 nm (1,776 km) at 25,000 ft
- Reduction of maintenance costs: Changing the engine family from the mid-size to the small-size category, makes an impressive difference in operating costs. Direct cost per mileage will be similar to the PA46-350P Lycoming-powered Mirage, but with a top speed of up to 260 ktas at 30,000 ft.
- Noise reduction: The new engine has a speed of 1,900 rpm compared to the original speed of 2,000 rpm. The certified outside noise is reduced from the original 74,9 db(A) to 66,9 db(A) for 1.999 kg. The inside noise has also been reduced.
The five-bladed propeller is mandatory for this STC, but in case the five-blade Quiet Fan Jet MTV-27 propeller is already installed, it can also be used on this conversion.
The MT-Propeller STC kit contains the following parts:
- One new P&W PT6A-135A engine
- One new MTV-27-()/CFR203-58d propeller
- One new set of exhaust pipes
- One new set of airbox parts
- One new bracket set for the engine power control interface
The Garmin EIS system is not included but is a minimum requirement.
