Originally Posted by
Global Aviator
I’m disappointed that no one agrees with me that the ascetics of more props is certainly a good reason!
I certainly agree. 5-blade prop looks nicer.
FGD135 You’ve given me a fair bit of homework. I’ll answer soon, unless others want to pipe up with the answers first.
I don’t have an engineering bone in my body so can only answer from my own experience flying the relevant aircraft.
The five-blade may be worth a few knots in the cruise (not sure what the FM claims without checking), but if it is it’s barely noticeable.
The highest cruise TAS I’ve ever seen in a -12 was with the 5-blade, but I’m not convinced other variables weren’t more at play than the prop.
However, the takeoff and climb performance is unquestionably better with the 5-blade.