Russian operator ChelAvia has become the first company to successfully integrate a Tecnam P2006T on to its AOC for commercial passenger transportation.

The aircraft has already proved popular and cost-effective as a multi-engine option for aero clubs, flying schools, syndicates and private aircraft owners around the world, and the manufacturer is now aiming to promote the P2006T twin for charter and air taxi usage.

Established in 2003, ChelAvia currently operates nearly 100 Tecnam aircraft and is actively engaged in training commercial pilots, especially for Russia-based airlines.

The Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation issued ChelAvia a decree that authorises it to use its fleet of Tecnam P2006T twins for comm-ercial passenger and freight activity. The approval completes certi-fication requirements for individual and legal entities carrying out commercial air transport operations. The operator reports that its customers value the P2006T's cabin space and comfort, coupled with an 'exceptionally' low cost of operation, speed and range, along with its versatility in the delivery of small-scale cargo and parcels.