Caravan Upgrade Nears Approval

Geneva, Switzerland (May 4, 2010) – Blackhawk officials announced at EBACE that their highly anticipated Caravan engine upgrade, the Pratt & Whitney 850 SHP PT6A-42A, bolted onto a new and hyper-efficient cowl design, is in the final stages of flight test.  EASA approval efforts are underway and will quickly follow the FAA STC certification process. Forty percent of current Caravan orders are from European-based operators who desire substantially improved takeoff and climb capabilities and faster cruise speeds.  Jim Allmon, President and CEO of Blackhawk Modifications, commented on why this upgrade is so popular throughout Europe. “Blackhawk is simply offering more of what you bought your Caravan for: power to get you safely into and out of remote locations and the speed to get you there faster. Caravan operators can’t wait to get their hands on this new upgrade, and we’re excited to see each stage of the flight tests passing with flying colors. I’ve called the XP42A a game changer for this workhorse aircraft – and every day as I watch the progress I’m impressed all over again. It’s a powerhouse!”

“We’re proud to partner once again with Pratt & Whitney to offer a solid solution that fills the needs of the European turboprop community,” Allmon continued. “Pratt & Whitney Canada and Blackhawk are an unbeatable team.”

Blackhawk has the largest non OEM engine contract in force with Pratt & Whitney, and topped the year with over 500 engines sold. Engines are priced based on the Pratt exchange program and generous credit is issued for time remaining to overhaul on core PT6A-114/A engines.  The following results are expected:

·         Takeoff – Distances are reduced by approximately 45 %.

·         Climb – Doubled rate of climb saves time and fuel.

·         Cruise – Max cruise speeds 40 mph faster.

·         Efficiency – Less fuel burn at original Caravan power settings (20 lbs per hour).

·         Capability – APE III and STOL included for extended flexibility (over 300 lbs. additional payload).

Blackhawk Sales and Marketing Director Edwin Black stated that Blackhawk has upgraded more than 265 aircraft since the company began operation in 1999. “King Air XP engine upgrades in Europe increased by 37% in 2009 and there are indications that 2010 will be even stronger.  Not only will our market opportunity grow with the new XP42A Caravan upgrade, but the new EASA noise restrictions will lead more operators to upgrade as our engines meet the new requirements.  Delivery slots are limited, we urge you to call 254-755-6711 for delivery schedule details.”