Pratt & Whitney’s new PW127XT-M turboprop engine, developed and manufactured by Pratt & Whitney Canada, has been certified by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCAA). This engine will power ATR aircraft and will replace the PW127E/M engines.
Timothy Swail, vice president of Marketing and Sales, Regional Aviation Products and APUs of Pratt & Whitney Canada, said that “the PW127XT-M engine sets a new standard. This certification is an important step toward the entry into service of the new ATRs.”
“We have worked closely with ATR to flight test the PW127XT-M,” Swail added. Like all other engines developed by Pratt & Whitney Canada, the PW127XT-Ms are certified to use up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Unveiled during the 2021 Dubai Air Show, the PW127XT-M engine offers 40% more time between scheduled shop visits. It is also 20% cheaper to maintain and consumes 3% less fuel. According to Pratt & Whitney’s press release, the 30- to 70-passenger turboprop aircraft are up to 40% more fuel efficient than their jet-powered counterparts.
Air Corsica will be the launch customer for the engine: the company has an order for five ATR 72-600s, with deliveries due to begin in November. These aircraft will replace the company’s ATR 72 fleet, currently comprising five ATR 72-500s. Since the company’s inception more than thirty years ago, Air Corsica has always opted for ATRs to operate flights to and from the island of Corsica.
Deutsche Aircraft also selected the PW127XT as the powerplant for its new D328eco. The model will use the PW127XT-S variant, which will be introduced when the D328eco development process requires it.
