Type Certificate Expected By July

Tecnam has announced the introduction of a new airframe, with an aero-diesel engine and a Type Certificate expected by July.

Burning just 5.2 US Gal per hour, the P-2010 TDI offers roomy, Italian-style shaped cabin interiors, and takes advantage of the high-wing configuration with 3 access doors plus another dedicated one for the baggage compartment. It can cover 1,000nm with the full tank capacity of 63 US Gal.

The P2010 TDI role is to fill a gap in customer choices, as they can now order the "Twenty-Ten" with three different powerplants, and three different fuel capabilities: automotive unleaded (approved on 180hp version), Avgas on the most powerful 215hp variant and, from now on, Jet/Diesel.

The P2010 TDI manages both metal and composite technologies, with load-carrying structure and unique Italian style. The fuselage and vertical fin are made entirely of pre-peg carbon fibers, while wings, horizontal tail and rudder, as well as all the load-carrying structures, are built with light alloy structures.

Flight safety is enhanced by the electrically adjustable height, 26G-capable crashworthy seats, while cockpit chores are handled by a G1000 NXi glass cockpit and GFCTM 700 autopilot, which is integrated with the Continental CD-170 engine.

Continental's Jet/diesel powered 170 HP engine offers single lever control, coupled with electronic engine monitoring and redundant safety features. The CD-170 is the newest design and also the highest-horsepower engine in the CD-100 series family, proven with more than 6,000 engines delivered and over 7.1 million service flight hours.

"The P2010 remains a modern aircraft for flight schools and private owners," says Paolo Pascale, TECNAM CEO. "With the Continental's Jet/diesel engine, the P2010 TDI is simply the 'ideal aircraft', combining a modern, sleek, 'green' design with consistent, robust power."

"We are proud to be Tecnam's newest aircraft partner, bringing innovative aircraft to aviators around the world," says Chris Kuehn, Continental's Vice President of Sales, Support & Services. "We remain committed to serving our partners and Tecnam's customers with expert service and support. This partnership reinforces our dedication to provide customers a freedom and choice with their engines that only Continental can provide."

On a historical note, Tecnam's very first aircraft, the Astore P48, built in 1948, was powered by a Continental engine - the A65. The connection between the two companies now spans more than 72 years.

FMI: www.tecnam.com