Blackhawk is redefining the performance of the King Air 350 with the introduction of an STC programme that combines Hartzell Propeller’s advanced five-blade composite propeller with Blackhawk’s high-performance XP67A Engine+ upgrade. This powerful pairing aims to enhance the speed, efficiency and operational value for King Air 350 operators.

Hartzell’s five-blade composite propeller’s carbon-fibre construction is engineered for lighter weight, increased durability and enhanced performance compared to the standard four-blade aluminium propeller. The addition of the extra blade saves operators approximately 10 pounds per side, or about 20 pounds in total. The five-blade also offers a reduced diameter that lowers the noise characteristics of the propellers. Operators can expect shorter takeoff distances, faster climb rates and improved cruise speeds, in combination with smoother operation, reduced cabin noise and lower maintenance demands.

The core of this upgrade is Blackhawk’s XP67A Engine+ upgrade, which replaces factory-installed Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-60A engines with more powerful PT6A-67A power plants. The engines alone offer a 24 per cent increase in available horsepower, bringing maximum cruise speeds of more than 332 katas and climbs to FL350 in under 17 minutes.

“By integrating Hartzell’s cutting-edge propeller with our proven XP67A engine upgrade, we’re providing King Air 350 operators with additional propeller options resulting in a personalised path to smarter, faster, more efficient flying with significant operational savings,” says Blackhawk president Edwin Black.

Hartzell’s composite blades have been flight-proven across global fleets, with more than 50,000 hours of service, unlimited blade life and extensive testing that includes 20 lightning-strike simulations and more than 200 bird-strike impact tests. Their low-noise, lightweight design not only boosts comfort but also improves fuel efficiency.

The STC provides an efficient, cost-effective way to upgrade performance, sustaining legacy aircraft models without the need to purchase a new airframe. Blackhawk-modified King Airs often sell at or above the combined value of the airframe and upgrade, delivering strong ROI for owners.

Certification of the Hartzell five-blade/XP67A King Air 350 pairing is expected at EAA AirVenture 2025 in July.