On Friday, Kestrel Aircraft selected the Honeywell TPE331-14GR to power its all-composite single-engine turboprop. The Brunswick, Maine-based company was founded by Alan Klapmeier, co-founder of Cirrus Aircraft, to bring the former Farnborough Aircraft F1 Kestrel turboprop to market. The F1 prototype, which Kestrel now owns, is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6-67A flat-rated to 1,000 shp. The TPE331-14GR, rated at 1,759 shp thermodynamic, will be flat-rated to 1,000 shp, according to Kestrel, “to allow for better high-altitude, high-temperature performance.” Honeywell’s market research algorithm showed that the Kestrel is aimed at a sweet spot in the marketplace. “Engine bets are big,” said Mike Bevans, Honeywell director of technical sales. “This is one we went after hard.” He added that Honeywell will certify a version of the -14GR for the Kestrel, with external changes to fit the aerodynamic shape, including relocation of accessories. “Making sure we had the right supplier to [make more] progress on the design was pivotal,” Klapmeier said. “Honeywell’s commitment to the success of the Kestrel program makes it a real team member.”