Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW127XT-L regional turboprop engine has received its type certificate from Transport Canada. The higher thrust PW127XT-L variant will power a new short takeoff and landing (STOL) version of the ATR 42-600 regional airliner. The new “S” variant of the 48-seat aircraft in development at ATR will be capable of operating from runways as short as 2,625 feet (800 m).
“This certification is a significant milestone for the ATR 42-600S program, as modifications to the engines are part of the major technical changes we are bringing to the aircraft – in addition to the rudder and avionics – with a huge influence on take-off performance,” said Daniel Cuchet, senior vice president of engineering at ATR.
P&WC says the PW127XT engine series offers 40 percent more time on wing, 20 percent reduction in maintenance costs, and a 3 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the prior generation of the PW127 engine. Deutsche Aircraft has selected another derivative of the engine, the PW127XT-S, to power its 40-seat D328eco regional turboprop now in development at the company.
A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Douglas Royce is currently co-editor of four of Forecast International's Market Intelligence Services: Civil Aircraft Forecast, Military Aircraft Forecast, Rotorcraft Forecast, and Aviation Gas Turbine Forecast. As such, he plays a key role in many important projects that involve market sizing and forecasting for various segments of the world aerospace industry, as well as demand for related systems.
