For pilots who grew up idolizing Chuck Yeager and Bud Anderson and dream of flying a modern version of a classic warbird, ScaleWings has taken another step forward—unveiling a significantly larger propeller that boosts both performance and visual impact of its SW-51 Mustang.
The SW-51 Mustang is one of the most authentic and capable replica aircraft in general aviation. Developed in the 2010s, the 72% scale, two-seat aircraft blends modern composite construction, contemporary avionics, and a turbocharged engine with the unmistakable design of the original North American P-51 Mustang.
The Germany-based manufacturer announced that the SW-51 will now be available with a 33% larger composite propeller developed in partnership with MT-Propeller. The new MTV-22 propeller improves climb performance by roughly 15%, adding about 300 feet per minute, while also reducing takeoff distance by a similar margin.
For an aircraft that already turns heads on the ramp, the larger prop adds an unmistakable presence.
“Performance and appearance of the SW-51 already exceed customer expectations,” said Christian von Kessel, CEO of ScaleWings. “The new prop increases both performance and ramp appeal of what is arguably one of the most recognizable aircraft in the world, the Mustang.”
The collaboration between ScaleWings and MT-Propeller spanned more than two years and carries historical significance. MT-Propeller currently certifies and manufactures full-scale composite propellers for the original North American P-51 Mustang, as well as the rare P-82 Twin Mustang. In addition, AVIA Propeller, part of the MT-Propeller Group, produces P-51 replacement blades under license from Hamilton Standard.
Drawing on that lineage, MT-Propeller designed the MTV-22 for the SW-51 by replicating and scaling the original 1940s Hamilton Standard blade shape and tip geometry. The result is a propeller that not only delivers tangible performance gains, but also strengthens the aircraft’s visual and historical authenticity.
“Making certain the SW-51 is an authentic replica of the original P-51 is something we take very seriously,” von Kessel said. “Since MT is now producing the Hamilton Standard P-51 propeller, collaborating with them on a new and improved prop for the SW-51 was a natural fit.”
The new propeller will be offered as an option beginning with SW-51 serial number 052. Existing owners are also eligible to upgrade, allowing them to benefit from both improved takeoff and climb performance and a more aggressive Mustang-like appearance.
Interest in the SW-51 has continued to grow, aided in part by the introduction of the FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification standards, known as MOSAIC. More than 20 aircraft were ordered in 2025 alone, and 62 have been sold since the model was introduced in the US just over three years ago.
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