Abstract: A variable pitch propeller has a two part hub assembly, each part of the hub has generally semi-cylindrical half sockets formed therein for receiving the cylindrical blade root shanks of individual fan blades. The sockets have enlarged portions, defining semi-annular shoulders, which receive an enlarged portion of the blade root shank so as to prevent axial movement of the fan blade. The half sockets of at least one part of the hub further have recessed portions for receiving locking insert members having a curved upper surface and a longitudinal keyway formed therein. A radially projecting key extends longitudinally along at least an a portion of the blade root shank and fits into the keyway formed in the locking insert member when the fan blade is placed into the half socket containing the locking insert member. The two parts of the hub assembly are coupled to clamp the fan blades within the aligned half sockets.