True Blue Power's Gen5 TB40 (40 amp-hour) lithium-ion battery now has FAA STC approval to be installed on all models of the Pilatus PC-12. The STC, developed by Finnoff Aviation Products, a Broomfield, Colorado-based company specialising in performance products for PC-12 aircraft, has modifications for every model of the Pilatus PC-12. This includes early PC-12s through the current PC-12NGX, with options for both single and dual main battery systems.

With a capacity of 40 amp-hours at 26.4 VDC, the TB40 provides superior and unparalleled energy. The battery easily starts PT6A-67B/P engines in all climates, from minus 40 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees Celsius. The significantly higher performance of the TB40 provides pilots with multiple, repetitive starts to motor the engine, thereby helping prevent hot starts, costly engine repairs or extended downtime.

“Our next step is introducing the Flex Digital ACU from Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics. The Flex ACU combines the cockpit clock and flight time functions with battery status indication. This optional installation will provide the flight crew with key battery information, such as status, state of charge and battery temperature,” says Jon Boknecht with Finnoff Aviation Products.

Key benefits of this STC include a weight savings of 60 per cent compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, on-condition maintenance and eight-year battery life expectancy.

“True Blue Power Gen5 batteries last four times longer than lead acid and NiCad batteries. The reduced maintenance and longer useful life can save PC-12 owners and operators up to $1,200 a year in total maintenance cost with a single battery,” concludes Van Winter, director of aftermarket sales and support. “The TB40 quickly pays for itself.”