The Blackhawk Group has completed development and testing for final certification of its heated de-ice system supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Piper Meridian, with approval expected in September.

The STC brings additional certified de-ice capability to legacy Piper Meridian aircraft, simplifying operations in icing conditions for one of the industry's most popular single-engine turboprops.

Blackhawk also offers Meridian owners the MT X-Range 135A Engine+ upgrade, available exclusively in North and South America through the company. The upgrade replaces the original PT6A-42A with a PT6A-135A, delivering improved performance, increased operating efficiency, lower maintenance costs and reduced noise. Cruise speeds of up to 258 ktas and increased range are among the benefits.

Edwin Black, president of Blackhawk Proprietary Upgrades, says: “Completing the development effort is an exciting milestone for this programme. We've made a long-term commitment to supporting Piper Meridian owners, not only through certification efforts like the de-ice STC, but by continuing to offer industry-leading performance upgrades that keep these aircraft relevant, capable and valuable for decades to come.”

Final certification for the de-ice STC is expected in September, adding to Blackhawk's existing upgrade programmes for the Meridian platform. Together with the MT X-Range 135A Engine+ upgrade, the STC gives Meridian owners a broader set of options for extending aircraft capability and value.