This week at EAA Airventure, aircraft modification specialist Blackhawk Group announced it has submitted a request to the FAA for a supplemental type certificate (STC) on its XP66D engine upgrade for Daher TBM 700-series turboprop singles. Replacing the original stock 700-shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-64 engine with the 850-shp PT6A-66D, bringing the TBM 700 performance on par with that of the upgraded TBM 850.
Blackhawk’s testing data reveals that the modification slashes time-to-climb to FL310 by six minutes and increases maximum cruise by an average of 25 knots to more than 300 knots. Additionally, the more powerful turboprop engine offers lower operating costs and enhanced safety margins with its increased power, according to Blackhawk.
“The new XP66D engine upgrade exemplifies Blackhawk’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the aviation industry,” said Edwin Black, president of Blackhawk’s proprietary upgrades division. “This upgrade combines our extensive experience in STC development with the deep TBM platform knowledge of [our] Avex performance center, delivering a transformative performance solution to TBM 700 owners.”
Its certification testbed—a 2004 TBM 700C2—is on display this week at EAA AirVenture. The airplane, which is available for purchase, has been fully refurbished and features an upgraded cockpit and cabin, in addition to the engine upgrade.