Piaggio Aerospace officially opened a sprawling new factory in Villanova d'Albenga, Italy, today, where the recently restructured company is moving all its aircraft production.
The maker of the Avanti Evo pusher twin recently changed its name from Piaggio Aero Industries to Piaggio Aerospace and announced a company-wide reorganization splitting the manufacturer into three units, one focused on production of civil aircraft, the second on defense and security markets and the third on engine production through licensing agreements.
The new $135 million factory is located about 50 miles south of Genoa adjacent to the Villanova d'Albegna Airport. Piaggio executives officially cut the ribbon opening the factory today alongside Italian Prime Minister Mateo Renzi.
Configured with new more efficient and quieter five-blade composite scimitar Hartzell propellers, winglets, improved aerodynamics and an additional 60-gallon fuel tank, the Avanti Evo offers improved climb performance, 250 nm additional range and 3 percent lower fuel burn. First delivery is expected next month.
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