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How Fast Can You Really Go?!Blackhawk_FullColor_BlackText_RGB_v1-png-1

I had to know if the speed claims were true, so I hopped aboard a King Air 350 equipped with Blackhawk's Pratt & Whitney -67A engines on a scorching hot day in Florida. We cranked up the power and aimed for the skies. In just 12 minutes, we reached FL280, a full 30 minutes faster than stock engines! Here is my firsthand account: 

Testing the Speed Claims

In my previous article, I shared the technical specs from Blackhawk's website about the King Air 350 engine upgrade with Pratt's -67A engines and MT 5-bladed propellers. The highlights include: 

  • 60% increase in climb rate
  • 40 KTAS faster, reaching over 330 KTAS max cruise speed
  • New Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A flat-rated 1050 SHP engines with a 3600-hour warranty
  • New 5-blade quiet composite propellers
  • 16% lower annual operating costs, saving both time and money 

These are impressive stats, but I needed to experience the upgrade myself. So, I joined a flight to see if the King Air 350 with Blackhawk's XP67A modification lived up to the hype. 

If you didn't catch the full article last time, you can read it here. 

The Flight Details

  • Date: June 12, 2024
  • Route: Panama City (KECP) to Midland, TX (KMAF)
  • Climb: 60ft MSL to FL280, no leveling, no stepping
  • Temperatures: ISA +18 on the ground, ISA +14 at FL280
  • Time to Altitude: 12 minutes 
  • Vertical Speed: 2000 to 3000 fpm until nearing FL280 with ITTs around 820
  • Cruise Speed: 330-340 KT TAS at FL280

The Flight Details

The most thrilling part was capturing the climb on video. Starting from sea-level runaway on a hot Florida day and full of fuel, we shot up to FL280 in just 12 minutes, then hit 331 KTAS cruise speed - 30 to 40 KTAS faster than stock. We reached cruise altitude without stepping, 25 to 30 minutes faster than usual. It was an incredible experience! You can watch the short version of the video here:

 

Week of Dec 20 7

See what others have to say... 

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"We needed to offer our clients jet-like altitude and speed with the utility of a King Air. The Blackhawk 67A engines made this possible. Quick to altitude and jet speeds at cruise, all with the payload and cabin of the 350. It's a perfect fit for our fleet."

Stephen E. Barker, President and Chief Pilot, Triton Airways

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"Nothing puts a smile on my clients' faces like a King Air going 330+ kts. The airplane climbs straight to altitude and accelerates to speeds you never thought you'd see in a King Air."

Chip McClure, Founder/ CEO, Jet Acquisitions 

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"Putting these engines on the 350 is a game changer. Straight to the low 30s in about 17 minutes with usable power all day. It's a much better weather plane now, and I can land it almost anywhere in 3,000 feet. Bottom line, with this mod I have more options with climb, cruise, and more options dealing with weather than I ever did with a stock 350."

Paul Armstrong, Founder Owner and Chief Pilot, Air King Aviation

Interested in an Upgrade?

Blackhawk offers engine upgrades for the King Air 90, 200, and 300 airframes.

Stevens Aerospace is the leading authority in King Air maintenance and modifications, with a legacy dating back to the first King Air flight in the mid-60s. We've been an integral part of the Blackhawk team, consistently maintaining our status as one of their premier installation and service centers. 

Whether you're considering an engine upgrade or a comprehensive overhaul including, avionics, paint, and interior refurbishments, Stevens Aerospace has you covered. Our commitment is to deliver results On Time, On Budget, and On Target. 

If you're intrigued and want to discuss your next move, contact Sales@StevensAerospace.com or visit our website.