Germany-based MT-Propeller Entwicklung has received FAA STC No SA04452NY for the scimitar four-blade composite MTV-14-B-C-F/CF(L)188-30g propeller on the Aerostar PA-60-600, -601, -601P, -602P, PA-60-700P powered by Lycoming IO-540-A- and IO-540-S-series (modified according to FAA STC SE1657NM) and (L)TIO-540-U-series engines.

This installation is already certified by EASA STC 10062000.

Vice president Martin Albrecht explains that the advantages of the installation are a shorter take off distance; enhanced climb by approximately 3 to 5 per cent (SL, ISA conditions); cruise performance increased by approximately 3 to 5 kts (MTOW, ISA conditions); approximately 40 lbs less weight than the original propellers; and no airframe resonance with low engine rpm.

The MT-Propeller natural composite blades provide significant inside and outside noise reduction. They have no life limitation and are repairable in case of a FOD. They also provide best vibration damping characteristics for almost vibration free propeller operation and have bonded on stainless steel leading edges for best erosion protection of the blades.

MT-Propeller has 30 models of composite propeller, from two-blade to seven-blade hydraulically controlled variable pitch propellers for engines producing up to 5,000hp, and two-blade to four-blade electrically controlled variable pitch propellers for engines producing up to 350hp, as well as two blade fixed pitch propellers. They can be used on aircraft with piston engines and propeller turbines, as well as on airships, wind tunnels or hovercraft; indeed they can be developed for nearly every aircraft type from motor gliders to regional airliners.

A factory certified network of 62 service centres provides service and maintenance around the world.