MT-Propeller Receives EASA STC for Four-Blade Air Tractor Propeller

MT-Propeller has received European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for its four-blade AVIA propeller on several Air Tractor models. FAA STC approval is still pending, so U.S. operators should note that the modification has not yet received FAA approval.

The approval covers the Air Tractor AT-402, AT-402A, AT-402B, AT-502, AT-502A, AT-502B and AT-503A models equipped with various Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprop engines.

According to MT-Propeller, the four-blade propeller offers performance equal to or better than the existing four-blade propeller approved under a previous STC. Reported benefits include increased static thrust of up to 430 pounds on PT6A-34AG engines and up to 200 pounds on PT6A-140AG engines. The propeller also allows a reduction in operating speed from 2,200 to 2,080 rpm on applicable engines, potentially reducing noise and improving efficiency.

Additional features include removable blades that allow the hub and blades to be installed separately. The propeller has a time between overhaul (TBO) of 2,500 hours or six years.

MT-Propeller, based in Germany, manufactures propeller systems for a variety of aircraft and engine applications.

Read the full report in General Aviation News.