Everett, WA, May 14, 2007 — The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved certification of the King Air 200 and 300 Winglet Systems from BLR Aerospace. This clears the way for approximately 150 aircraft operating under an EASA registry to reap the same performance and aesthetic benefits their North American counterparts already enjoy.
In 2005, BLR introduced its King Air 200 Winglet System to much acclaim, and 65 systems have been installed on King Air 200s and 300s to date.
“We’re pleased to bring Winglet technology and benefits to King Air 200 and 300 operators in the EASA community,” said Dave Marone, director of Sales and Marketing. “Our customers especially enjoy immediate increases in asset value and ongoing reductions in direct operating costs.”
Winglets deliver a range of benefits, including increased cruise speed (3-6 knots) or reduced fuel consumption (3.5 percent less burn), and increased vertical rate of climb (300-400 fpm). Additional benefits include reduced drag, improved handling qualities, and easy access right up to the aircraft’s service ceiling at flight level 350. It all adds up to a measurable return on investment for operators, Marone said.
The performance improvements are a direct result of an increase in effective wingspan and associated increase in aspect ratio combined with the beneficial impact of the winglet acting as a physical pressure barrier, conserving valuable lift.
Winglets are available from a worldwide dealer network that includes Beechcraft Sales & Service in Germany, Hawker Pacific in Australia, Bromma Air Maintenance in Sweden, NAC in South Africa and some 25 other dealer locations throughout North America.