3-Blade Prop Provides 15% Shorter Takeoff Roll, 20% Increased Climb Rate

Hartzell Propeller announced it has received the STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) for its Pathfinder 3-blade carbon fiber propeller for the Aviat Husky aircraft. The new propeller is available as a Top Prop STC upgrade for existing aircraft and as an STC option for new production models through Aviat.

The Pathfinder is an 80-inch prop that replaces existing 2-blade composite, aluminum, and wood propellers on Aviat Husky models A-1, A-1A, A-1B, A-1C-180, and A-1C-200. It is certified for aircraft powered by Lycoming O-360-C1G (180 HP) and IO-360-A1D6 (200 HP) piston engines.

Jon Stoy, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Hartzell Propeller said, "Flight testing demonstrated significant performance improvements with the Pathfinder-equipped Husky. Compared to the baseline Type Certificated 2-blade Hartzell propeller, the 3-blade Pathfinder delivered a 15% shorter takeoff roll and a 20% increase in climb rate. Additionally, it meets noise limits without RPM restrictions and provides the same or better cruise performance."

Weighing in at just 46 pounds, the lightweight propeller and spinner contribute to smoother idling and high durability. The Pathfinder allows continuous operation at full power (2,700 RPM) and is approved for all gross weights.

The Pathfinder’s TBO of 2,400 hours or six years provides a cost-effective solution, ensuring lower life cycle expenses for operators. These performance and efficiency improvements make the Pathfinder an attractive upgrade for Aviat Husky owners looking to enhance their aircraft’s capabilities.

FMI:  hartzellprop.com/