LYNN, Massachusetts - After meeting all specification performance requirements, GE's newest CT7 turboprop engine, the CT7-9C3, has received FAA certification.

Rated in the 1900-shaft-horsepower class, the -9C3 offers a baseline power increase of approximately five percent and improved hot/high altitude takeoff performance, compared with current CT7-9 models, and is fully interchangeable with existing installations.

The engine's performance increases are attributed to an advanced centrifugal compressor, which completed its certification testing last year. The -9C3 incorporates a more rugged propeller shaft design and is compatible with a new 12-foot, four-bladed Hamilton Standard propeller. The new engine/propeller combination produces a total of 15 percent more thrust at takeoff.

The first application for the CT7-9C3 is the CN-235-300 to be produced by CASA in Seville, Spain. CASA expects to receive aircraft certification by the end of 1998. With the -9C3's performance increases, the new CN-235 model will be able to carry heavier loads or operate from shorter runways.

"Certification of this newest addition to the CT7 family of engines reflects GE Aircraft Engines' continuing efforts to provide our customers with powerplants that meet ever-changing operating requirements," said Bill Coon, director of GE Aircraft Engines' CT7 Turboprop Programs.

Shipments of CT7-9C3 engines to CASA for installation in production CN-235-300 aircraft are scheduled to start in late 1998.

Other CT7 turboprop engine models have logged 14 million hours powering nearly 600 Saab 340 and CN-235 aircraft. CT7 turboprop engine models have also been selected to power the Let L610G and Sukhoi S-80 aircraft currently in development for service in Europe and Russia.