Genoa October 11, 2004
Piaggio Aero Introduces New Model Avanti: the Avanti II

Oct. 11, 2004 - Piaggo Aero Industries introduces the Avanti II, a new model Avanti featuring enhanced avionics, speed, payload and cabin comfort. The first Avanti II will be delivered in 2005 at a price of $5.97 million.

The flight deck will include Rockwell Collins’ Pro Line 21 avionics suite featuring three 10’’x8” liquid crystal adaptive flight displays, FMS 3000 flight management system and AHS 3000 attitude heading reference system.

The Avanti II received certification for increasing maximum operating mach (Mmo) to .70. In addition, in the 2006 model year the upgraded Pratt & Whitney PT6-66B engines will be introduced, which will add 12 knots or more to the cruise speed at altitudes above 35,000 feet, and push the maximum cruise speed to 398 knots.

The Avanti II also features an increase in maximum zero fuel weight, from 9,500 lbs. to 9,800 lbs., and maximum takeoff weight, from 11,550 lbs. to 12,050 lbs., and reduced empty weight. This increases the useful load by one to two passengers at longer ranges. Some Avanti II enhancements will eventually be made available for retrofit on the existing fleet.

Passengers will also enjoy upgraded cabin amenities, including a remodeled lavatory vanity and closet that adds space while reducing weight, and an optional in-flight entertainment system featuring DVD, CD, satellite radio and moving map displays.

“Obviously we are very excited about the launch of the Avanti II,” said Tom Appleton, Piaggio America president and CEO. “The new features, in particular the Pro Line 21 package, will be very popular. We are pleased to announce that we listened to the requests of our customer and prospects, while answering the markets needs.”

The Avanti’s reliability and performance make it the most advanced turboprop in corporate aviation and the fastest turboprop in the world. Holder of numerous speed records, the Avanti is capable of flying 1,600 nautical miles at up to 395 ktas (450 mph) and cruises at altitudes up to 41,000 ft.

This jet-like performance comes with a stand-up cabin that is larger than many mid-size jets. At 69” in height and 73” wide, the Avanti provides its passengers with a level of comfort found only in much larger and more expensive jets. The Italian-designed and built aircraft is certified for single pilot operation and seats up to nine passengers.                   

Piaggio America, Inc. completes, delivers and supports the Avanti in North America and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Piaggio Aero Industries, which specializes in the manufacture of aircraft and components for the international corporate and military markets. It also manufactures and services aircraft engines under license and provides engineering, maintenance and support services for its own products from its base in Genoa, Italy.