The Avanti P180 has a very futuristic look, with its two pusher turboprop engines and form canard wing. Its construction, however, is predominately aluminum. Certificated in 1990, 40 aircraft were sold before production was suspended in 1994. The Avanti re-entered production in 2000 after a hiatus during the mid-1990s. Piaggio has been manufacturing aircraft since 1915. Their U.S. headquarters in Greenville, SC, is committed to a strong U.S. presence, which is considered critical to continuing the Avanti’s production run.
The Avanti is fast, even when compared to a light jet like a Citation Bravo or Premier I. It also has a cabin that is larger than a King Air or Citation Bravo, and nearly the size of a Hawker. Add to that its fuel efficiency compared to a jet, and this aircraft is an attractive alternative option.
