On June 8, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted Thrush Aircraft LLC a Type Certificate for its newest aircraft model, the 510P2+, powered by a PT6-140AG engine and a 4-blade Hartzell propeller. The 510P2+ is the first of four certification programs the aerial application aircraft manufacturer has launched for two engine and airframe configurations.
The certification programs will combine Thrush’s best 500-gallon airframe with additional engine options from Pratt and Whitney Canada (PT6-34AG and PT6- 140AG) to create its new 510P2 and 510P2+ aircraft models. Both engines integrate with single- and dual-cockpit versions of the airframe, which historically has been used for Thrush’s 510G model.
Thrush expects its other three configurations to receive certification later this summer. The manufacturer currently has orders for 510P2 and 510P2+ models to be delivered to eight countries. Performance data will be published on both models in June and July.
Thrush has already established its new production line. By the time the first two type certificates are awarded, it expects to have 12 aircraft completed and ready for delivery (about half -140 powered, half -34 powered). The company plans to hire more than 125 people over the next 12 months to grow its production capacity to meet the increased market demand.
Thrush will continue to build and deliver the 710P aircraft, as the certification program does not affect that production line.
“The new P2 and P2+ deliver increased performance, productivity and reliability to our customers,” Mark McDonald, Thrush Aircraft’s CEO, said. “We are continuing to invest in our production capacity to meet the growing demand for our products and services, and we are grateful for the positive initial feedback and the significant preorders from the marketplace.”
NAAA congratulates Thrush Aircraft for bringing its new 510P2+ model to fruition.
