The short takeoff and landing (STOL) variant of Tecnam’s twin-engine P2012 Traveller is on track to receive its EASA type certification by the end of the year, the company announced this week at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas.
The P2012 STOL switches out the original Traveller’s Lycoming TEO-540-C1As for Continental GTSIO-520-S engines. At its maximum takeoff weight of 8,113 pounds, the 11-seat STOL model will have a takeoff distance of 1,394 feet compared to the standard Traveller’s 2,596 while offering a landing distance of 1,181 feet at its maximum landing weight of 8,003 pounds. The standard version is capable of landing in 2,438 feet.
“Addressing the needs of a market niche that has been underdeveloped and unsupported for decades, Tecnam once again provides a solution for operators seeking a modern, spacious, comfortable, safe yet stylish aircraft with outstanding STOL capabilities for their business,” the Italy-based company said in a statement. “The P2012 STOL is the only twin-piston aircraft with short takeoff and landing capabilities that [comply] with the latest certification changes.”
Equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite, the Tecnam P2012 STOL has a top cruise speed of 185 knots, 905 nm range, and useful load of 2,831 pounds. The IFR-capable aircraft can be configured for missions including passenger transport, cargo, and air ambulance operations. Tecnam expects to begin P2012 STOL deliveries in January.
Expanding U.S. Partnerships
Italy-based Tecnam also announced at NBAA-BACE the launch of a new dedicated maintenance training program in partnership with Florida-based Aero Affinity Holding Corp.. According to Tecnam, courses will be available for its entire fleet. Tecnam noted that those who successfully complete the courses will be eligible to become an authorized Tecnam Service Center. Courses will be offered in locations including Ontario, Canada; Florida; and California.
“The American market is strategic for Tecnam,” said Umberto Giannotta, the company’s service delivery manager. “We want customers and technicians to be competent and comfortable flying and servicing the aircraft.”
In addition, Tecnam appointed Southern Cross Aviation as a spare parts distributor for the P2012 series in the U.S. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Southern Cross also has a distribution hub in Anchorage, Alaska, and is planning to open a facility in Mesa, Arizona. Tecnam said the partnership aims to provide an “enhanced experience for P2012 operators across the country” in light of “many more” scheduled aircraft deliveries in the Americas.
