Catalyst is the first clean-sheet, advanced turboprop engine of the 21st century and the first in its class to meet the latest certification standards. The process included compliance with more than 20 new regulatory requirements, ensuring enhanced performance, efficiency, and safety.
Riccardo Procacci, President and CEO of Propulsion and Additive Technologies at GE Aerospace, described the certification as a major milestone for the company. He highlighted the dedication of the development team and reaffirmed GE Aerospace’s commitment to ramping up production for the engine’s entry into service.
During the certification process, Catalyst test engines accumulated over 8,000 hours of operation. These tests demonstrated that the engine met key performance targets, reinforcing its reliability and technological advancements.
Paul Corkery, Catalyst General Manager at Avio Aero, emphasised the rigorous testing programme and the engine’s strong performance. He confirmed that GE Aerospace remains focused on supporting Textron Aviation as it works towards the certification and deployment of the Beechcraft Denali aircraft.
Catalyst brings significant improvements to the turboprop sector, featuring an industry-best 16:1 overall pressure ratio. This innovation enables up to 18% better fuel consumption and up to 10% higher cruise power compared to competing engines in the same class.
The engine incorporates two stages of variable stator vanes and cooled high-pressure turbine blades. It also includes components produced using additive manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and reducing weight.
Designed, developed, and manufactured at GE Aerospace sites in Europe, Catalyst is a product of collaboration between facilities in Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Germany. It is part of GE Aerospace’s next-generation engine family, contributing to the company’s vision for the Future of Flight.
Catalyst has been selected to power the Eurodrone, a military unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) currently under development. This multinational programme, led by Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Leonardo, has secured orders from four NATO countries—France, Germany, Italy, and Spain—for 60 twin-engine reconnaissance aircraft.
