The Blackhawk Group has submitted all flight test data to the FAA and is waiting for supplemental type certificate approval for pairing Hartzell’s five-blade composite propeller with its XP67A Engine+ upgrade on King Air 350 aircraft.

The pairing delivers higher speed, greater efficiency and improved operational value. Hartzell’s carbon fibre propeller reduces weight by 20 pounds and noise both inside and outside the cabin. Blackhawk’s XP67A engine upgrade replaces stock PT6A-60A engines with 1,200 shp PT6A-67A powerplants, increasing available horsepower by 24%.

Operators will see cruise speeds of over 337 ktas, FL350 climbs in under 18 minutes and improved takeoff performance. The XP67A has been in service for over eight years and continues to perform reliably across a range of operating conditions.

Edwin Black, president of TBG's proprietary upgrades division, says: “This STC approval is a major step forward for King Air 350 operators seeking to elevate the performance of their aircraft without the cost of a new airframe.”

Hartzell president JJ Frigge says: “We’re proud to launch this game-changing five-blade carbon fibre propeller STC for Blackhawk-powered King Air 350s.”

Blackhawk will offer the package to new and existing King Air 350 customers through its global service network.