Dowty Propellers has expanded its worldwide support network through a partnership agreement with AirStart for rotable parts services on R408 propeller systems that equip Bombardier Q400 regional airliners.

This three-year exclusive agreement brings together the expertise of Dowty Propellers as the R408 propeller system OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and the resources of AirStart – including the company’s established inventory of Q400 airliner parts, with exchange, lease and purchase options.

AirStart’s support covers major elements of the R408 propeller system: blades, spinner, hub, pitch control unit, overspeed governor and brush blocks. Based in Canada, the company’s global customer base includes operators in key emerging airline markets, with the Dowty Propellers agreement expected to generate a multi-million-dollar business volume.

“We’re partnering with a company that has a strong reputation in rotable parts, as well as excellent Q400 operator relationships and end-to-end global logistics,” said Oliver Towers, the President of Dowty Propellers.

AirStart maintains the world’s largest inventory of Q400 propeller blades, which is positioned at the company’s multiple locations around the world for customers operating in some 50 countries.

“Working with Dowty Propellers ensures we provide customers with the best service and quality,” Robert Wills, AirStart’s owner and founder, explained. “Our agreement includes guaranteed turnaround times and pricing, along with customized work scopes for better availability.”

Dowty Propellers’ R408 propeller system has six all-composite blades and is installed on the twin-engine Q400’s Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150A turboprop powerplants. It incorporates a fail-safe electronic control system, precise speed selection and synchrophasing accuracy.