Texas-based Blackhawk Modifications has signed a contract with German-based Air Alliance to retrofit the current engines on three Grand Caravan 208 series aircraft with Blackhawk's new PT6A-42A upgrade.
The XP42A conversion will boost the legacy PT6A-114A's power to 850shp (635kW), offering Air Alliance "a much needed boost in take-off, climb and cruise performance for the currently underpowered 675shp Grand Caravan," says Blackhawk, a turboprop engine upgrade company.
Certification of the PT6A-42A is expected in the fourth quarter this year, with deliveries beginning shortly after. Blackhawk says the upgrade will yield a 4% increase in gross take-off weight, a 15% increase in cruise speed and a cut in time-to-climb and fuel burn from sea level to 12.000ft (3,660m) by as much as 6minand 11 litres (3USgal), respectively.
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Source: Flight Daily News
