
Piper X-Range Meridan aircraft with the PT6A-135A engine replacing the original PT6A-42A
Blackhawk Aerospace Named Sole Provider for Piper Meridian PT6A-135A Engine Replacement STC from MT-Propeller

Piper X-Range Meridan aircraft with the PT6A-135A engine replacing the original PT6A-42A
The Blackhawk Group (TBG) announces that it has been named the exclusive distributor in North and South America for the supplemental type certificate (STC) covering the Piper Meridian engine replacement program from MT-Propeller, which transforms the aircraft into the “X-Range” Meridian. This STC replaces the factory-installed PT6A-42A engine with the lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-135A.
Developed by MT-Propeller, this forward-looking upgrade includes MT’s 5-blade MTV-27 Quiet Fan Jet composite propeller, offering significant gains in performance, operating efficiency and cabin comfort. By combining the lightweight PT6A-135A engine with MT’s advanced propeller design, Piper Meridian owners can expect more payload capability, cruise speeds up to 258 knots, improved fuel economy, and an extended range of up to 1,340 nautical miles at 30,000 feet. Additionally, the aircraft benefits from a dramatic reduction in noise levels both inside the cabin and externally, resulting in a quieter, more enjoyable flying experience.
The complete STC kit includes:
- a factory-new PT6A-135A engine
- MT-Propeller MTV-27 5-blade Quiet Fan Jet composite propeller
- new exhaust system, airbox components, and engine-mounting hardware
- brackets for the engine power control interface
Note: Garmin EIS system is a prerequisite for the engine replacement.
“The Blackhawk Group was the obvious choice for this program in the Americas,” says Martin Albrecht, vice president of MT-Propeller. “Their deep expertise with PT6A upgrades, reputation for excellence, and strong support network across North and South America made them the ideal partner to deliver this exciting upgrade to Piper Meridian owners.”
Edwin Black, president of TBG’s Proprietary Upgrades division, says, “We’re proud to partner with MT-Propeller to bring this exceptional upgrade to Piper Meridian owners across the Americas. This program builds upon our strong relationship with MT and our success with the Finnoff Silent 7 program to provide an option for operators to combine performance, efficiency and value in a way that allows them to 'Outfly the Ordinary.' We’re excited to expand our reach and continue helping operators get more out of their aircraft for years to come.”
With this new offering — and the thirteen other turboprop airframes The Blackhawk Group modifies — the company continues to lead the turboprop upgrade market by delivering smarter, more efficient solutions designed to maximize aircraft performance, reduce costs, and extend the life and value of existing airframes.
For more information regarding the PT6A-135A engine replacement program for the Piper Meridian, call Blackhawk at +1 (254) 755-6711, email info@blackhawk.aero, or speak to The Blackhawk Group team at EAA AirVenture, Booth #322.