Tecnam unveils the P2010 TDI powered by Continental CD-170 jet/diesel engine

Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam SpA has announced the introduction of a new player into the general aviation arena. With the type certificate expected by July, the P2010 TDI has been one of the most secret development programs ever!

The announcement of the "P Twenty-Ten TDI" was live-streamed via Tecnam's official YouTube channel today. Thousands of viewers have registered to participate in this exclusive worldwide event.

Burning just 5.2 US Gal per hour (less than 20 litres), with roomy, Italian-style shaped cabin interiors, and taking advantage of the high-wing configuration with 3 access doors plus another dedicated one for the baggage compartment, is no longer a dream. And it is no longer a dream to cover 1,000nm with the full tank capacity of 63 US Gal (240 litres).

The P2010 TDI role is to fill a gap in customer choices, as they can now order the "Twenty-Ten" with three different powerplants, and three different fuel capabilities: automotive unleaded (approved on 180hp version), Avgas on the most powerful 215hp variant and, from now on, Jet/diesel.

The P2010 TDI is a concentrate of state-of-the-art technologies, where Tecnam's capabilities to manage both metal and composite technologies has shaped a unique solution in terms of efficiency, load-carrying structure and unique Italian style: fuselage and vertical fin entirely made of pre-peg carbon fibers provide the best use of space, while wings, horizontal tail and rudder, as well as all the load-carrying structures, are built with 70 years' experience of light alloy structures.

Flight safety is self-explanatory in the latest certification requirements followed by the electrically adjustable height, 26G-capable crashworthy seats, while flying experience is the ultimate with the Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit and GFC 700 autopilot, entirely integrated and tuned around the Continental CD-170, full FADEC and single-lever controlled engine.

Continental's Jet/diesel powered 170 HP engine offers ease of flying with its single lever, coupled with electronic engine monitoring and redundant safety features. The CD-170 is the newest design and also the highest-horsepower engine in the CD-100 series family, proven with more than 6,000 engines delivered and over 7.1 million service flight hours.

"The P2010 remains a modern aircraft for flight schools and private owners," says Paolo Pascale, Tecnam CEO. "With the Continental's Jet/diesel engine, the P2010 TDI is simply the 'ideal aircraft', combining a modern, sleek, 'green' design with consistent, robust power."

"We are proud to be Tecnam's newest aircraft partner, bringing innovative aircraft to aviators around the world," says Chris Kuehn, Continental's Vice President of Sales, Support & Services. "We remain committed to serving our partners and Tecnam's customers with expert service and support. This partnership reinforces our dedication to provide customers a freedom and choice with their engines that only Continental can provide."

On a historical note, Tecnam's very first aircraft, the Astore P48, built in 1948, was powered by a Continental engine — the A65. The connection between the two companies therefore spans more than 72 years.