Tecnam announced today that the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had validated three major enhancements to the Tecnam P2010 4-seater general aviation aircraft; GFC700 autopilot integration to the G1000 flight deck, a Garmin G500 avionics option, and certification to use MoGas.

The FAA completed its review of the subject level 1 major change(s) in close cooperation with both EASA and the Tecnam Design Office on April 18th, resulting in the issuance of FAA approval Type Certificate No. A00066CE.

The revision validates the use of the GFC 700 autopilot, fully integrated with the G1000® glass flight deck. The GFC 700 is an AHRS-based automatic flight control system that provides flight director, autopilot, automatic and manual electric trim capabilities which brings a high level of digital sophistication to general aviation flight controls.

The validation of the Garmin G500 Suite, as an alternative to Garmin G1000, affords customers even more choices and options. This new G500 configuration also includes an EIS System based on the EDM930. Primary COM/NAV/GPS is the GTN 650 touchscreen navigator while the secondary COM/NAV source is provided by Garmin GNC 255. A GTX 33 remote mode-S transponder is controlled via GTN 650 touchscreen display with ADF and DME available as optional NAV aids.

From the initial design concepts for the P2010 Tecnam sought to offer its customers a non-100LL fuel alternative. The selection of Lycoming IO-360M1A to power this next generation four-seater was mainly a result of its capability to burn alternative fuels other than 100LL. The approval of this major design change by FAA sets an important milestone on Tecnam's “green transition” as the first worldwide aircraft manufacturer able to obtain such a wide, flexible and non single-brand related choice, as well as the first GA manufacturer capable of obtaining approval for use of automotive fuel on IO-360 Lycoming engine.

All Tecnam General Aviation, 2 and 4 seats, single and twin engines aircraft, are ready for a lead free future now.

Shannon Yeager, Tecnam USA Inc. Sales Director said: “We are excited to offer our potential US based customers a beautiful and stylish aircraft with its state-of-the-art avionics and alternative fuel that will satisfy the most demanding of private owners and the budget conscious Flight Schools.”