Korea Aerospace Industries Claims 240 knots; 1300 Mile Range For New GA Entry

The KC-100 aircraft in development by Hartzell Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) will be fitted with Hartzell's proprietary technology ASC-II propellers, as well as its S-Series propeller governors, the company announced Thursday. Hartzell will supply the first propeller systems for the KC-100 program this summer. 

KAI began development on its first general aviation program in June, 2008, and expect the first-delivery aircraft to be completed by June, 2013.  Hartzell intends to have FAA, Korean, and EASA certification in place for this new propeller system in time for first delivery. KAI KC-100 project leader, I.S. Kim, Research Fellow (VP) & Head, Fixed-wing Aircraft Integration Department said, "We chose Hartzell for our KC-100 program over other potential suppliers because they have been an outstanding partner on our KT-1/KO-1 turboprop military trainer program.  They have demonstrated to us that their technical know-how and superior engineering, manufacturing and customer service are second-to-none in the industry." 

KC-100 Artist's Concept

The KC-100 is a four place, single engine piston aircraft developed independently by KAI.  Hartzell's ASC-II advanced composite, 3-blade propeller will be installed on a turbo-charged Teledyne Continental TSIOF-550 engine with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) rated at 315hp at 2500rpm. KAI says the all-composite exterior, spacious cabin and expected cruise speed of 240 knots make it an airplane suited for both business and leisure pilots. 

The aircraft's specifications include a maximum takeoff weight of 3,600 pounds, a maximum payload of 1,100 pounds, and a maximum range of 1,321 nm. For the KC-100, Hartzell will provide a 3-blade, 78" diameter propeller, integrating its lightweight compact hub and polished aluminum spinner.  Anti-icing equipment will also be included for a total installed weight of 63 pounds.

KC-100 Artist's Concetp

Mike Disbrow, Hartzell's senior VP marketing and customer services, said, "Work has already begun on the development of the new KC-100 prop.  We have a large amount of test data on TCM FACEC engines and expect to deliver an outstanding propeller system to KAI on-schedule."

FMI: www.hartzellprop.com, www.koreaaero.com