Composite Props From MT Propeller Lessen Noise, Maintenance Costs

German air carrier Regional Air Express has successfully completed a series of test flights with new, five-blade composite propellers of MT Propeller in Straubing, Germany fitted to one of its Metroliners.

During those trials, performance data and noise emissions were determined. "The noise emission outside the aircraft is so low that it will be listed in the lowest noise category," according to Regional.

Things were even better inside the cabin... with an 88 db sound reading, compared with the 92 db interior noise level of a Boeing 747, according to the airline. Performance numbers and maintenance costs compared with the old four-blade props should also prove superior.

EASA certification is planned for February 2009. After this the certification by CAA and FAA is expected soon.

Regional Air Express launched the project together with MT-Propeller, and will be the first operator of the Metro. The airline plans to convert its entire fleet of four aircraft to the new propellers during the first quarter of 2009.

Currently there are 350 Metroliners in worldwide service with passenger and cargo airlines. "Lots of them have already mentioned their interest in a conversion," according to Regional.

FMI: www.regional-air-express.com, www.mt-propeller.com