Hartzell Propeller announced today (Feb. 25) its new Falcon composite propeller series. The Falcon series kicks off with the Kestrel, a lightweight, constant-speed propeller designed specifically for aircraft powered by the Rotax 916 engine. Piqua, Ohio-based Hartzell said the Kestrel has received ASTM approval and FAA certification is expected later this year. The launch application for the Kestrel is the CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL.
Hartzell worked directly with both CubCrafters and Rotax to design the Kestrel for optimum performance, efficiency and durability. It is the lightest propeller available for the Carbon Cub UL, according to the announcement, weighing in at 19.6 pounds—10 pounds less than any other option for the airplane. The three-blade Kestrel measures 76 inches.
Hartzell Propeller President JJ Frigge said, “[The Kestrel] is tailored for the excellent backcountry and cross-country flying capabilities of the STOL Carbon Cub UL.” CubCrafters’ president and CEO Pat Horgan said of the propeller, “It delivers superior handling, improved takeoff and climb performance, and a 3-4 knot increase in cruise speed compared to other propellers—all while maintaining a lightweight design. Plus, it looks fantastic on the aircraft.”
