Hartzell Propeller, in collaboration with aerobatic pilot Sean D. Tucker, has earned FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for its composite three-blade Talon carbon fiber propeller and spinner, now available for the entire GB1 GameBird fleet.
According to Hartzell officials, the 77.5-inch diameter Talon propeller features:
A 5-8% increase in en route climb performance at 120 KIAS
5% increase in maximum climb at 90 KIAS
More than a 20% reduction in takeoff ground roll
“In addition, the Talon propeller has improved handling, offering exceptional propeller response and aerodynamic braking for formation flight and aerobatics,” company officials said.
The Talon propeller has already demonstrated its capabilities under FAA Field Approval, thanks to Tucker, who has flown it extensively on his GB1 GameBird, company officials added.
“In a head-to-head race between my GameBird equipped with the Talon and a factory-standard model, the difference was astounding,” Tucker said. “At full throttle, the Talon felt like having an extra 30 horsepower. The thrust improvement is unmatched, especially crucial in formation flying and aerobatics.”
The GB1 GameBird, powered by the Lycoming 303-horsepower AEIO-580 engine, features an empty weight of 1,080 pounds and a useful load of 900 pounds.
For more information: HartzellProp.com
