Airitalia Australia, Australian agent for the Vulcanair range of aeroplanes, has confirmed that a Vulcanair V1.0 is due to arrive in the country before Christmas.
The demonstrator aircraft is scheduled to arrive on 21 December, and will be airborne sometime in early January.
The Vulcanair is a metal four-seat GA aircraft derived from the P.64B Oscar of 1967 and powered by a 180-hp Lycoming IO-360. Vulcanair is marketing the aircraft as an alternative to both the Cessna C172SP and Piper Archer for flight training organisations looking to replace ageing fleets.
Michael Loccisano, Managing Director of Airitalia Australia, said: “We think the V1.0 will do well in the region for a number of reasons: first, Vulcanair are a well proven manufacturer that we have been working with since 2004; second, the aircraft is built tough, perfect for challenging Aussie flying conditions, and the demanding training market.
"Best of all it can do all the competitor can, and better, for a much lower price. We also think the glass cockpit, third door, and already strong interest from flying schools will add to the appeal.”
Touted in some circles as a "Skyhawk killer", the V1.0 has an MTOW of 1155 kg and a book cruise speed of 130 KTAS. It's tag price of $US259,000 is well below the asking price for the C172SP, which has been quoted at $US391,000. Garmin G500 avionics and EDM960 engine management system are part of the standard offering.
More information on the V1.0 is available on the AirItalia website.