Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) and Blackhawk Modifications have launched a Progressive Maintenance Program (PMP) for skydive operators using PT6A-42A engines on Blackhawk Modifications’ XP42A Cessna Caravan conversion.
“We are very excited about this enhanced PMP, which will allow skydive operators to extend their time between overhauls (TBO) to 5,000 hours,” said Denis Parisien, Vice President, General Aviation, P&WC, who unveiled the program at EAA AirVenture alongside Jim Allmon, President and CEO, Blackhawk Modifications. “The new program is the result of improved technology and the close relationship between P&WC and Blackhawk Modifications.”

“Thanks to P&WC’s powerful PT6A-42A engine, the XP42A upgrade provides up to 26% higher power at 850 shp while continuing to provide the reliability for which the PT6A engine family is legendary,” noted Allmon. “This results in improved aircraft utility, allowing Blackhawk Modifications to better meet operators’ needs.”
For a typical skydiving mission, the aircraft features improved climb performance and is able to descend at 4,000 feet per minute, enabling several more flights per day, company officials said.
For more information: PT6Nation.com