The owner of the first production Piaggio P180 has ordered a new Piaggio Avanti II to replace his original model. Robert "Bob" Pond, a military aircraft collector owns more than 25 aircraft.

The first Avanti II was delivered in December 2005 to a Swiss customer. The first Avanti II aircraft in the U.S. is due to be delivered this month following US FAA certification awarded in March 2006.

Pond said: "I really like the PIaggio P180. It has served us well. My wife, Jo, is Italian, so this plane holds special meaning for us. We are looking forward to flying together in our new Avanti II."

The Avanti II is an advanced turboprop. It has a range of more than 1,800 miles, a speed of 450 mph

and a maximum cruising altitude

of 41,000 ft. It is licensed to operate with a single pilot and can carry up to nine passengers.

Piaggio Aero Industries chief executive Joe Di Mase said: "Its overall performance is similar to that of a jet but with 30 per cent less fuel and lower operating costs."

He said the cabin height of 69" and width of 73" offered a good level of cabin comfort.