A Boost for King Air 300s and Citation 500s

BLR Aerospace has received a supplemental type certificate from the FAA for winglets that mean good news for King Air 300 owners. The Everett, Wash. company claims the winglets will increase the twin turboprop's cruise speed by five to eight knots, reduce fuel consumption 3.5 percent and increase the rate of climb by 300 feet per minute. At the same time, Sierra Industries of Uvalde, Texas, is developing winglets as a retrofit item for the Citation 500 and 560 that will similarly enhance performance. FAA approval is expected in the third quarter of 2007.