Italian aircraft builder Tecnam has received full type certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for its P2012 Traveller turboprop.
The 11-seater is due to enter into service next year with US regional airline Cape Air, based in Massachusetts, which is scheduled to start receiving the first of its ordered aircraft early in 2019. Tecnam says Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification is expected shortly.
The P2012 Traveller development project was officially kicked off in 2015, with Tecnam investing in new production facilities in Capua, Italy. The first P2012 prototype made its maiden flight in July 2016.
The two prototypes used in the certification programme have flown a total of 600 hours. The programme benefited from the support of many global aerospace organisations, the company added, including engine supplier Lycoming and avionics specialist Garmin.
The certified configuration is a high wing aircraft powered by two 375HP Lycoming 6-cylinder turbo piston TEO540C1A engines. It is the first piston aircraft with electronic management of engine power which, coupled with Garmin autopilot, enables a reduced workload for pilots and a better lifetime for the engines.
The anti-ice, de-icing system being used is TKS from Cav Ice. The design and manufacturing of the seats has been done directly by Tecnam.
Paolo Pascale, Tecnam’s CEO, said: “The EASA certification of P2012 Traveller marks a significant milestone for my Tecnam team, our very first commuter airline aircraft. We have embraced new challenges and developed new skills. I am very proud to lead one of the most innovative and growing global aviation companies and I dedicate this important achievement to the Luigi and Giovanni Pascale brothers who started all this in 1948.”
Michele Oliva, head of design, said: “I need to say thanks to all our engineers of Tecnam Design Office, authorities’ representatives and our partners, but especially to the technicians of the experimental department that set up the aircraft for testing, often working until late at night, to let us be ready for the next morning’s tests. I am especially proud that we have successfully completed the project that the late Prof. Luigi Pascale started. We know we have achieved all that he envisioned in the development of this game changing aeroplane.”
