The Blackhawk Group has received FAA Supplemental Type Certificate approval for the integration of Hartzell Propeller’s 5-blade composite propeller with Blackhawk’s XP67A Engine+ Upgrade on the King Air 350.
Hartzell’s new propeller features carbon fiber construction that replaces the standard 4-blade aluminum prop, reducing weight by approximately 10 pounds per side. The smaller diameter lowers cabin and exterior noise while improving comfort and efficiency, according to Blackhawk officials.
Paired with the XP67A Engine+ Upgrade, which replaces stock PT6A-60A engines with 1,200 SHP PT6A-67A powerplants, the approved package delivers a 24% increase in available horsepower. Pilots can expect cruise speeds above 337 KTAS, climbs to FL350 in under 18 minutes, and significantly better takeoff performance, company officials reported.
Hartzell’s composite propeller has more than 50,000 flight test hours, 20 lightning strike simulations, and over 200 bird strike tests, according to Hartzell officials.
“We are excited to launch this 5-blade carbon fiber propeller STC for Blackhawk-powered King Air 350s,” said JJ Frigge, President of Hartzell Propeller. “It is lighter, quieter, and engineered for maximum thrust, making it the ideal match for the XP67A.”
For more information: Blackhawk.aero, HartzellProp.com
“24% increase in available HP”
That sounds like they increased the propeller efficiency by 24%!
The question is: were the prior Hartzell propellers 56% efficient or are the new propellers 104% efficient?
The increased performance is also due to the higher performance engine as well as the new prop.