An undisclosed Greek operator has taken delivery of the first Piaggio Avanti EVO, which it plans to use for charter operations, in Genoa. The manufacturer expects to deliver six aircraft by the end of the year to customers in the US, Asia and Europe.

Employing typical Italian styling, the interior contains vip seats developed by Iacobucci HF and covered with Poltrona Frau leather.

The type is the third generation of the P180 Avanti, with increased performance, efficiency and comfort. Able to carry up to seven passengers and capable of flying at a maximum cruise speed of 404 kts, the EVO has an IFR range of 1,770 nm and can fly to a ceiling of 41,000 feet.

Fuel consumption has been calculated by Piaggio as being 40 per cent lower than jets of the same class, with noise levels reduced by up to 68 per cent.