Story ID: 
Piaggio Begins Avanti Evo Deliveries
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: First customer will use the twin pusher-prop aircraft in charter operations.
Word Count: 168
Piaggio Aerospace handed over the first of its new Avanti Evos to a Greek customer for use in charter operations. Announced during last year’s European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition, the Evo is the third generation of the P.180 twin pusher-turboprop aircraft with winglets, redesigned nacelles, a reshaped front wing, new Hartzell five-blade scimitar propellers and a number of system upgrades.

Piaggio secured initial European certification for the aircraft late last year. The company expects to deliver six Evos this year to American, Asian and European customers. The first Evo was delivered with an extended-range and full-option configuration. The aircraft is fitted with Iacobucci HF seats incorporating Poltrona Frau leather.

The Evo improvements boost efficiency and cut emissions, reduce external and internal noise and enhance performance. The $7.4 million aircraft can carry up to seven passengers, has a maximum cruise speed of 404 knots and can fly IFR 1,770 nm with the increased-range option. The aircraft has a 41,000-foot ceiling and 2,770-fpm climb rate.