Piaggio Aero announced at the JetExpo 2011 that its P.180 Avanti II has been certified by the Russian aviation authorities. Both type and production certificates received from the Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC)
The IAC type-certificate confirms that the design of the aircraft complies with Russian regulations, having previously gained both EASA/FAA certification in 2005. The Avanti II can now be legally registered and operated throughout the Russian Federation.
Piaggio’s International aircraft sales Director Fabio Sciacca told Show Observer that first delivery of the aircraft may occur early next year, or even before the end of 2011. At present negotiations are underway with a number of potential customers. These are companies interested in flying Avanti II for medevac and surveillance purposes, as well as those, who view this aircraft as a VIP-flyer. The latter group comprises both operators and private owners, according to Sciacca. He estimates the Russian market’s capacity for Avanti II at two deliveries a year, noting that this forecast is a conservative one. Sciacca also said the Italian OEM is in talks with MRO providers for Avanti II customer support in Russia, primarily in Moscow area.
Avanti II is the fastest twin turboprop in the world with pressurized cabin. It reaches max speed of 745 km/h, and its range exceeds 2700 km.
Alexey Sinistky
www.ato.ru
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