Italian manufacturer Tecnam has expanded its range by adding a type-certified IFR trainer.
Announced overnight, the P-Mentor is fully certified CS/FAR 23 two-seat low-wing designed to lower the cost of training instrument-rated pilots.
Powered by a Rotax 912 iSC3 engine turning a two-blade MT constant-speed propeller, the P-Mentor has a maximum cruise speed of 117 KTAS and a range of 730 nm.
“We are delighted to present the P-Mentor today," said Tecnam Managing Director, Giovanni Pascale. "I am sure this new design will revitalise the trainer market, helping many flight schools to remain competitive and profitable and making new student pilots happier and more proficient.
"Real sustainability, fuel economy and profitability start here."
“When I see a new Type Certificate with this model’s name, I think of my father and my uncle, prof. Luigi Pascale – the men who started this adventure," said Tecnam CEO, Paolo Pascale. It also reminds me of all our collaborators and customers that brought us here today – our Mentors.”
Garmin G3X avionics are standard fit with a back-up GI 275 electronic instrument. The panel enables pilots to train for most IFR procedures including PBN/RNAV and GFCTM 500 autopilot training.
The laminar flow wings are constructed of light-weight allow for the spars and box section, with carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) for the leading edge. The wings contain 103 l fuel tanks, which give a theoretically endurance greater than nine hours.
Optional extras include a GNX 375 navigator, undercarriage retraction simulator and ballistic parachute.
According to Tecnam, the P-Mentor is more fuel efficient and has lower CO2 emissions than any other IFR trainer in its class, citing a 60% reduction in emissions.
Tecnam plans to reveal the P-Mentor to the public for the first time at Aero Friedrichshafen on 27-30 April this year.