Piaggio Aerospace has appointed Francesco Cristian Toninelli as CEO. The board of directors has entrusted Toninelli with leading the company through its next phase of growth and production ramp-up as Piaggio Aerospace continues to strengthen its position within the global aerospace market.

“Mr. Toninelli brings extensive operational experience, strong technical expertise and deep knowledge of the company's industrial activities,” comments Haluk Bayraktar, chairman of the board of Piaggio Aerospace and CEO of Baykar. “We are confident that his leadership will support the continued development and long-term success of Piaggio Aerospace.”

Cristian Toninelli's extensive experience and previous tenure at Piaggio Aerospace led the company to bring him back following Baykar's takeover of the company in 2025. In his most recent role as aircraft general manager, he has been responsible for overall aircraft business leadership, including programme execution and customer delivery within a complex international manufacturing environment. His appointment reflects the board's confidence in his ability to lead Piaggio through its next phase of growth and production scale-up.

He holds a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering from Politecnico di Milano and first joined Piaggio Aerospace in 2012. He served as aircraft production business unit manager and later as programme manager for the P.1HH Hammerhead UAV and the P.180 MPA, where he led development and certification activities. Prior to his appointment as aircraft GM at Piaggio, he spent more than seven years at OMA in senior leadership roles, including GM and head of sales, marketing and programmes. Earlier in his career, he held procurement and contracts leadership positions at Alenia Aermacchi, managing complex supplier networks and large-scale industrial contracts in international aerospace programmes.

Piaggio Aerospace is entering its next chapter with confidence and a clear vision for growth. The company is committed to strengthening customer relationships, accelerating production of its flagship P.180 Avanti aircraft, enhancing its engine business capabilities and reinforcing its position as a global benchmark for quality and innovation in the aerospace industry.

Giovanni Tomassini has stepped down from the position. Bayraktar thanked Giovanni Tomassini for his contribution and professionalism during his tenure: “Since the acquisition of the company by Baykar, Tomassini has contributed with professionalism and dedication during a significant period of transition and transformation for the organisation. I would like to express our sincere appreciation for his valuable service to the company.”