Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has started work on a new plant for building the 11-seat P2012 Traveller.
The new plant is the result of a significant investment that is expected to create a number of new skilled aircraft engineering and support jobs.
Backing for the P2012 has come from the Italian government, which has funded the program to enable it to meet the 2015 certification target.
The P2012 is a next-generation twin designed to comply with both FAR part 23 and EASA CS-23, intended to replace the fleet of legacy twins on charter and short-haul RPT.
"Ultimately operators have been demanding a next generation aeroplane that can deliver not only profits but reliability, efficiency and off course passenger comfort. The Tecnam design team have answered all these needs in developing the P2012 Traveller, one of the first new FAR23/CS23 aeroplane in 25 years!’’ said Paolo Pascale, Tecnam’s Managing Director.
"The P2012 Traveller builds on our commitment to continue to develop outstanding, stylish, innovative and affordable aeroplanes.’’
Tecnam is now beginning the Critical Design Review for both P2012 structure and systems.
The P2012 will be powered by two TEO-450 Lycomings and is expected to achieve a top speed of 215 kt. Currently the sticker price is set st $US1.8 million.