Company Says Upgrade Expands Caravan Performance Margins

Caravan and Grand Caravan operators who fly with Wipline Amphibious Floats will soon be able to further enhance the performance, flexibility and utility of their aircraft with the Blackhawk XP42A engine upgrade. Blackhawk expects the combined package of engine, floats and more to receive a Supplemental Type Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration in the first quarter of 2014.

The certified Blackhawk engine upgrade package will significantly improve Caravan and Grand Caravan performance in take-off, climb, and cruise, all key to effective float operations. The certification aircraft is currently being upgraded at the Blackhawk Modifications facility in Waco, Texas.
 
“Our team is enthusiastic about this program because it will make a positive impact on the Caravan amphibious fleet,” said Blackhawk President and CEO Jim Allmon. “We’ve had strong demand for the upgrade, which will add so much more capability to an already capable workhorse aircraft.”
 
The XP42A Upgrade Package includes a factory-new Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A engine rated at 850 continuous shaft horsepower (SHP). In addition, the package utilizes a new propeller; new composite cowling and high efficiency inlet duct; new 40 percent larger oil cooler; new Blackhawk DigiLog engine gauges, and new exhaust stacks.
 
The upgrade significantly expands Caravan performance margins, decreasing the takeoff distance, increasing the aircraft’s rate of climb while using less fuel. All of these enhancements make the Caravan a more valuable and cost-effective asset for literally dozens of missions worldwide.
 
Visit with the Blackhawk team Oct. 22–24, 2013 during the National Business Aviation Association’s 66th Annual Meeting and Convention (NBAA 2013). Its exhibit is at Booth C7032 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

FMI: www.blackhawk.aero