Piaggio has obtained certification from EASA for its new P180 Avanti II. Promoting it as the world's fastest turboprop, the company claims that it can deliver jet-like performance without the burden of increasing jet fuel prices.

The nine-passenger twin turboprop, which will be delivered to customers in early 2006, will

offer a range of 1,800nm and a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.70. The upgraded PT6A-66B engine is expected to add 12 knots to the cruise speed of the aircraft, raising its maximum speed to 398 knots.

The flight deck includes a Pro Line 21 avionics suite, featuring three liquid crystal adaptive flight displays, the FMS 3000 flight management system and the AHS 3000 altitude heading reference system.

"We are proud to have obtained the P180 Avanti II's certification in such an extremely short time," commented Piero Ferrari, President of Piaggio Aero Industries. "This aircraft, with its new generation avionics, represents the next generation of Piaggio aircraft and we are delighted to present it to the business aircraft market. The engineers and technicians at Piaggio Aero have succeeded in enhancing an already incredible aircraft."

Increases in the maximum zero fuel weight and maximum takeoff weight raise the useful load by one to two passengers. Upgraded cabin amenities include a remodelled lavatory and an optional in-flight entertainment system featuring DVD, CD, satellite radio and moving map displays.

"Obviously we are very excited about the Avanti II," said Paggio America preident and ceo Tom Appleton. "The new features, in particular the Pro Line 21 package, are very popular."

Some of these enhancements will be made available for retrofit on the existing fleet.