ConnectJets, Piaggio Aerospace’s exclusive sales agent for the British Isles has confirmed the first delivery of an Avanti EVO to a UK customer. The aircraft will be available in Europe for charter through ConnectJets supplementing private use by the owner.
The aircraft departed Riviera Airport, in Villanova d’Albenga, Northwest Italy, home of Piaggio Aerospace’s centre of excellence, to London Southend Airport on February 8, 2018 and is now offered via ConnectJets’ charter arm and the business aviation charter broker fraternity, starting March 2018.
The Avanti EVO is one of the world’s fastest turboprops. There are currently around 220 P.180 Avanti aircraft in service, with growing global interest and presence. The innovative 5-blade scimitar propellers and the three-lifting surface configurations marry together to reach top speeds of 402 KTAS (745 km/h), while its shape aids significant fuel savings and lower emissions, compared with other aircraft in the same class. The Avanti EVO is a great option for continental destinations, thanks to its ability to land on short, or even semi-prepared runways, giving it access to peripheral airports and small airfields that are inaccessible to commercial airliners.
The fully customizable, seven-seat configuration fuselage, with the best stand-up height of its class (5ft 9in/1.75m), can meet most exacting standards, with luxurious materials crafted to suit owners’ specifications.
The new owner, who lives and works in the UK, said: “The Avanti EVO was my first choice for a short haul aircraft in Europe. Not only it is exceptionally fuel efficient, but the interior space is very large for an aircraft of its type. After spending many hours cooped up in small light jets, the height and width of the cabin space is extraordinary. Piaggio Aerospace have fitted out the interior of the aircraft to a very high standard which makes it enjoyable and comfortable to fly in, even during three and four-hour flights. Having a plane which is easy to use for short hops from around Europe, and also comfortable for longer London to Moscow or London to Istanbul flights were key requirements. The innovative design of the plane is a real head turner when it’s on the ground too.”
