Engine manufacturer Honeywell Aerospace signed an agreement with Propulsion International at last week's NBAA Convention to provide financing and group maintenance plan solutions on turbine aircraft engines.

Initially, Propulsion International will provide group maintenance programs on Honeywell TPE331 turboprops, including engine models -10, -11, -12 and -14 and conversions. Similar programs on fan engines are expected “in the near future.”

With enrollment available at anytime, group maintenance is a full-coverage solution, customized to meet owner/operator requirements. According to Propulsion International CEO Chad Ahrens, “This innovative program reduces out-of-pocket costs for the operator’s initial maintenance, conversion or retrofit and folds in a very competitive maintenance program backed by Honeywell and the authorized service center network.” The key, he added, is to “change the economics and approach of engine programs, while protecting operators from the risk of high-cost or unforeseen maintenance events.”

In addition, the group maintenance plan incorporates a path for inspection interval extension for Part 91 operators. Propulsion International is now authorized by Honeywell to extend the TPE331-10, -11 and -12 TBO for Part 91 operators to 7,000 from 5,000 hours, “allowing us to pass the savings along to the operator,” said Ahrens.

Partners with Propulsion International in the financing and maintenance venture include Executive Aircraft Maintenance, Twin Commander Aircraft and National Flight Services.