Being the only propeller design company that holds more than 220 STCs to install the most modern propellers with up to seven blades, MT-Propeller engineers and test pilots decided to take the next step and not only certify a more efficient propeller, but also combine it with a more efficient engine. So they took the Piper Meridian and replaced the original PT6A-42A engine with a PT6A-135A engine.

The MT-Propeller EASA STC for the installation of the PT6A-135A engine in the Piper Meridian was handed over by Marco Capaccio, small aircraft, balloons and airships section manager, EASA to Josef Eberl, MT-Propeller chief engineer and test pilot and Martin Albrecht, MT-Propeller general manager and test pilot at AERO Friedrichshafen.

The advantages of the engine replacement are greater efficiency plus a reduction in maintenance costs and noise. The maximum range with maximum fuel (ISA, MTOW, no wind, one pilot, 45min fuel reserve) is now:

- 203ktas cruise speed: 1,340nm (2,479km) at 30,000ft

- 203ktas cruise speed: 1,290nm (2,387km) at 28,000ft

- 240ktas cruise speed: 1,160nm (2,146km) at 28,000ft

- 258ktas cruise speed: 960nm (1,776km) at 25,000ft

Changing the engine family from the mid-size to the small-size category makes an impressive difference in operating costs. Direct costs per mileage will be similar to the PA46-350P Lycoming-powered Mirage, but with a top speed of up to 260ktas at 30,000ft.

The new engine has a speed of 1,900rpm compared to the original speed of 2,000rpm. The certified outside noise has been reduced from the original 74,9db(A) to 66,9db(A) for 1.999kg. The inside noise has also been reduced.

The five-bladed propeller is mandatory for this STC, but in case the five-blade Quiet Fan Jet MTV-27 propeller is already installed, it can also be used on this conversion.

The MT-Propeller STC kit contains:

- One new engine P&W PT6A-135A

- One new propeller MTV-27-()/CFR203-58d

- One new set of exhaust pipes

- One new set of airbox parts

- One new bracket set for the engine power control interface

The Garmin EIS system is not included but is a minimum requirement.