FAA supplemental type certificate approval is imminent for the integration of Blackhawk’s XP67A Engine+ upgrade with Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics system, which will thereafter be available as an aftermarket upgrade option. This approval marks a key advancement for the King Air 360, enhancing its performance and reliability.

“This certification brings significant value to King Air 360 owners and operators, offering a powerful and efficient engine upgrade option,” says Edwin Black, president of Blackhawk Aerospace. “Integrated with the Pro Line Fusion avionics system, the XP67A Engine+ upgrade enhances the capabilities and market value of these aircraft. This certification effort expands eligibility for over 300 recently delivered aircraft to fly with Pratt & Whitney’s PT6A-67A engines and the latest and greatest Pro Line Fusion avionics system from Collins.”

The PT6A-67A engine delivers 1,050shp to altitude, significantly outperforming the baseline stock engines, which were mission optimised, but start losing power at lower altitudes. Paired with the MT five-blade composite propeller, the upgrade transforms the King Air 360 into a high-performance, fuel-efficient aircraft, reducing operational costs and increasing longevity.

The Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics system provides an advanced user interface with high-resolution touchscreen displays, Synthetic Vision System (SVS) and next-generation flight management and communication tools, further enhancing safety and situational awareness. Specifically, the upgrade to the Pro Line Fusion avionics system adds new features such as Datalink Option enabling CPDLC (FANS1/A+ Domestic and ATNB1), Privacy ICAO Address (PIA), integration with the Blackhawk XP67A Engine+ upgrade and the ability to add all factory options in the aftermarket.