Thrush Has Received Experimental Certification From FAA

GE's new H80 turboprop engine has completed its first flight on the Thrush 510G aerial applicator, which flew on November 23, in Albany, Georgia.

GE H80 File Photo

"The GE and Thrush teams have been working toward this milestone since engine selection last year, and today's events are a testament to this group's extraordinary efforts," said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of GE Aviation's Business and General Aviation organization. "This is a historic moment with the Thrush 510G being the first application for the new H80 engine, and the first North American new engine installation for the M601 engine family."
 
The first flight of the Thrush 510G aircraft, a 510-gallon, 10,500-pounds gross weight crop duster, lasted 30 minutes and is part of the overall flight-testing program to demonstrate the aircraft's capabilities. Since first flight, the H80-powered 510G has flown an additional five hours and has achieved experimental certification from the FAA.

Thrush 510 File Photo

"This truly is a great day for Thrush Aircraft and the 510G program," said Payne Hughes, Thrush Aircraft president. "It's the culmination of the hard work and dedication of our employees. We are looking forward to the 510G flight program which will demonstrate the enhanced capabilities of this airplane."
 
The H80 engine will accumulate more than 8000 cycles and 150 endurance hours during engine durability and performance tests. Engine certification tests continue at the GE Aviation Czech facility, with EASA and FAA certification expected in early 2011.

FMI: www.ge.com/aviation