GE Catalyst engine receives FAA approval
February 28, 2025
GE Aerospace’s Catalyst turboprop engine has received FAA certification, with the powerplant’s first application set to be the upcoming brand-new Beechcraft Denali.
Offering up to 18% lower fuel burn and 10% higher cruise power compared to competitors in the same size class, the “first, new centreline, clean-sheet advanced turboprop of the 21st century” is aimed at the 1200 – 1400 SHP range. It is also the first turboprop engine to be certified to the latest standards, including what GE described as more than 20 “significant new requirements”.
The FAA Part 33 certification process involved over 23 engines and more than 190 component tests, with the test units completing more than 8,000 hours of operation. Designed, developed and manufactured at European GE Aerospace sites (including Avio Aero in Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany), GE now remains focused on supporting the production ramp-up ahead of its entry into commercial service.
“The Catalyst engine benefits from GE’s engineering expertise and from the largest European research and development programmes devoted to decarbonisation,” explained the manufacturer. “Additive technology has been used in combination with advanced alloys to allow more geometrical freedom in the design.” Additionally, it is the first modern turboprop ever built with 3D-printed components.
Beechcraft elaborated that the Catalyst engine “features a dual channel FADEC and propeller control which provides easy jet-like power in the flight desk as well as unrivalled operating efficiencies and engine protection”. With the aircraft able to carry up to eleven occupants, it boasts a four-passenger range of 1,600 nm and a maximum cruise speed of 285 ktas.
