Blackhawk Aerospace has launched a supplemental type certificate (STC) program for the Hartzell five-blade composite propeller on Beechcraft King Air 350s as part of its XP67A Engine+ upgrade, with FAA approval slated for late July. Announced last week at the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, the composite propeller option offers lighter weight (by about 20 pounds), reduced noise, increased durability, and enhanced performance compared to the standard four-blade aluminum propeller.

According to Blackhawk, the composite propeller allows for shorter takeoff distances, faster climb rates, and improved cruise speeds, as well as smoother operation, reduced cabin noise, and lower maintenance demands. This builds on the XP67A Engine+ upgrade, which replaces factory-installed Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-60A engines with PT6A-67As that have a 24% increase in available shaft horsepower.

“This new STC program highlights our passion to pursue next-level performance solutions,” said Blackhawk president Edwin Black. “By integrating Hartzell’s cutting-edge propeller with our proven XP67A engine upgrade, we’re providing King Air 350 operators with additional propeller options resulting in a personalized path to smarter, faster, more efficient flying—with significant operational savings.”