2 June 2025
At Aero Friedrichshafen, Hartzell Propeller unveiled a sleek leap forward, a lightweight, constant-speed carbon fibre propeller designed specifically for Rotax engines. The new three-blade system, weighing just 20 pounds including spinner, uses a repackaged version of Hartzell’s proven forward-tension hub.
Carbon fibre brings obvious advantages: it’s lighter than aluminium, equally strong, and has an unlimited service life. Small dings from grass or gravel strips? No problem – touch-up kits restore blades to factory-new condition.
A key feature is a nickel-cobalt leading edge, up to an inch wide, ten times harder than aluminium, making it ideal for rough-field use. Future configurations may include four- or five-blade setups, but for now, the focus is on the 915 and 916 Rotax market.
For the Rotax 916iS, the Kestrel Propeller – part of the Falcon Propeller Series – is priced at $19,375. Weighing under 20lb, it has been identified by Cub Crafters as the best-performing option among four tested for the UL. The propeller is constant speed, ASTM compliant, and currently in the process of FAA type certification.
For Rotax 912 and 914 engines, Hartzell Aviation offers the WhirlWind GA-RW3B ground-adjustable propeller. This 3-blade model weighs 8lb and is also ASTM compliant. It’s available in a standard version for $2,220, with a STOL variant – featuring a longer diameter – priced at $2,340.
