All Piper M-Class turboprop singles—the Meridian/M500 and M600/SLS—are now approved to use up to a 50 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blend, the company said this week at Aero Friedrichshafen in Germany. It further added that the SAF nod applies to every country where turbine M-Class aircraft operate.
The introduction of SAF to the Piper turboprop line will not require a change in aircraft placarding or pilot operating handbooks, the Vero Beach, Florida-based aircraft manufacturer said.
Piper also is aiming to promote sustainability in general aviation for its piston aircraft. In July at EAA AirVenture, Piper and CAE announced they are collaborating on an electric motor conversion kit for Archer TXs via a supplemental type certificate. Upon certification, CAE plans to convert two-thirds of its Piper Archer TX training fleet and will be the first to develop a curriculum for new pilots to conduct training in an electric airplane.
“We are pleased with the continuous improvements made to our products, especially in regard to environmental consciousness,” said Piper v-p of sales, marketing, and customer support Ron Gunnarson. “Prioritizing sustainability in our aircraft as technological advancements allow is important to Piper Aircraft, first seen in our electric Archer TX/CAE partnership and now with SAF compatibility in our turboprops. We are committed to a safer, greener aviation industry.”