Blackhawk Aerospace has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) from the FAA to transform the Beechcraft King Air 300 into the fastest King Air in the world.

Coupled with Blackhawk's conversion to factory-new Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) PT6A-67A engines replacing stock PT6A-60A engines on 12,500 pound and 14,000 pound gross weight models of the King Air 300, Hartzell's optimised composite five-blade swept propellers combine to deliver maximum speeds over 340 knots for the Blackhawk-powered 300.

“Once again, Hartzell props are performing at a truly exceptional level and are helping Blackhawk deliver on its promise of a King Air 'rocket ship,'” says executive vice president and general manager JJ Frigge. “These new aerodynamically optimised Hartzell props improve takeoff and climb performance in addition to delivering impressive cruise speeds, and also come with a three-year, 3,000-hour warranty.”

“Blackhawk's extensive flight testing evaluated and measured single and multi engine handling qualities, aircraft performance, engine and accessory cooling, stall speeds and characteristics, landing characteristics, propeller noise and vibration, and high-speed airframe and engine characteristics,” adds Blackhawk president and CEO Jim Allmon. “We were delighted to be able to include Hartzell Propeller's proven five-blade composite technology in this latest Blackhawk upgrade programme. These cutting-edge propellers produce more thrust, which delivers peak performance for our customers. It's a winning combination.”

Hartzell Propeller's five-blade technology, designed for Blackhawk's King Air 300, utilises the aerodynamic effect of blade sweep, the strength of lightweight structural composites and robotic manufacturing technologies and optimises performance in all flight phases.

Hartzell Propeller designs and manufactures advanced technology aircraft propellers for business, commercial and government customers. The company designs next generation propellers with innovative blended airfoil technology and manufactures them with machining centers, robotics and custom resin transfer molding curing stations.

Hartzell Propeller and sister company Hartzell Engine Technologies form the general aviation business unit of Tailwind Technologies.