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. 

FMI: www.blackhawk.aero