Sun, Oct 03, 2010
Blackhawk Receives Approval To Upgrade Cheyennes In Europe To
PT6A-135A Powerplants
The EASA has certified Blackhawks XP engine upgrade for the
Piper Cheyenne I, II and IIXL models. The XP upgrade package
replaces original engines with factory new Pratt & Whitney
PT6A-135As.
The 750 Shaft Horsepower -135A engines are flat rated to the
original airframe horsepower limit, which increases the available
torque in climb and at cruising altitudes. This Blackhawk
engine upgrade allows all Cheyenne models to achieve max cruise
speeds in the 280 knot range while it reduces time to climb and
extends range. Blackhawk says the retrofit lowers the
operating and maintenance costs and offers the Cheyenne operator a
solid return on investment while they fly and superior resale
value.
Blackhawk holds many international approvals for twin engine
turboprop upgrades such as the King Air series and the Conquest I.
The company says the European Cheyenne market will benefit from
greater range capabilities and shorter block times, two key
contributors in an aircraft acquisition process. Aircraft
valuation guides such as Vref and Aircraft Bluebook indicate that
the option to install new Blackhawk engines continues to strengthen
the marketplace for legacy aircraft.
"It is our experience that operators prefer engine upgrades
because of the performance and value they add to the equation,"
said Jim Allmon, Blackhawk President and CEO. "Overhauling engines
is a high price to pay for the same performance levels that are
decades old. New engines will bring the aircraft to modern
performance levels for not much more than a typical overhaul will
cost which is why we are pleased to continue expanding the new XP
engine option for the global turboprop fleet."
The Blackhawk XP package also allows for the installation of a
Hartzell 4 bladed "Whisper" propeller that will further reduce
noise levels, vibration and improve overall aircraft
performance. The Whisper propellers are approved with our
without the popular XP-135A engine upgrade.
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