<div class="htmlview paragraph">The current aircraft noise regulations effected the design of propellers where tip speeds were reduced to meet these regulations. Reduced tip speeds were accomplished by reducing propeller rpm and/or propeller diameter. To retain propeller performance, diameters were increased, or the number of blades increased, respectively. These changes effected the propeller weight drastically.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">A composite propeller blade has been developed that is significantly lighter than a blade fabricated from aluminum.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Additional advantages of the composite blade is strength and maintenance characteristics.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Considerable testing was accomplished to demonstrate the strength and fatigue characteristics of the blade.</div>