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 (Piqua, Ohio, U.S.), a Signia Aerospace company and global composite propeller technology manufacturer, has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) for its Pathfinder three-blade carbon fiber propeller for Aviat’s (Afton, Wyo., U.S.) Husky, a high-wing utility light aircraft. Pathfinder is available as a Top Prop STC upgrade for existing aircraft, and is also available as an STC option on new production aircraft through Aviat.

The 80-inch-diameter Pathfinder replaces existing two-blade composite, aluminum and wood propellers on Aviat Husky models A-1, A-1A, A-1B, A-1C-180 and A-1C-200. It is approved for aircraft powered by Lycoming O-360-C1G (180-horsepower) and IO-360-A1D6 (200-horsepower) piston engines.

“Flight testing demonstrated significant performance improvements with the Pathfinder-equipped Husky,” says Jon Stoy, VP of sales and marketing at Hartzell Propeller. “Compared to the baseline type certificated two-blade Hartzell propeller, the three-blade Pathfinder delivered a 15% shorter takeoff roll and a 20% increase in climb rate. Additionally, it meets noise limits without rpm restrictions and provides the same or better cruise performance.”

Weighing just 46 pounds, the Pathfinder propeller and spinner offer smooth idling, high durability and low life cycle cost, with a 2,400-hour/6-year TBO. The propeller allows continuous operation at full power (2,700 rpm) and is approved for use at all gross weights.