Tecnam P2010 TDI receives FAA certification

In a November 25 press release, Tecnam announced its P2010 TDI has received type certification from the FAA. The original wide, composite aircraft complete with an all-metal wing and stabilizer received type certification in 2015. Since then, Tecnam has been hard at work developing a more fuel-efficient version of the P2010. The manufacturer stated that the aircraft is “the perfect platform to match the [d]iesel engine performance and capabilities.”

Tecnam Managing Director Giovanni Pascale said, “The FAA certification of the P2010 [TDI] marks a significant milestone for the Tecnam [U.S.] Market, the availability of [Jet A] in every airport makes our four-seater the ideal machine for cross-country mission and efficient flight training.”

In combination with comfort, reliability, and safety, the approval of diesel/Jet A fuel makes for lower operating costs for consumers due to the aircraft’s dual full authority digital engine control Continental engine. The turbocharged diesel engine produces 170 horsepower and delivers consistent climb performance up to 18,000 feet msl, the company noted. FADEC (with a single lever) contributes to fuel burn rates as low as 4.5 gallons per hour at 55 percent power, and 7 gph at 75 percent power. The CD-170 has proved to be reliable, with 7,500 engines in service totaling over 8.5 million flight hours.

“This engine will give you the same power that the Lycoming-powered engine will for 7 to 8 gallons an hour compared to about 11 to 12 gallons an hour. And starting the engine is just like starting your car. There is no mixture control, so there’s no hassle at all,” said Tecnam dealer Glenn Lawler of Gulf States Aircraft Sales.

In addition to the new engine and other modifications, Tecnam’s engineering team also made sure to maintain the P2010’s series of design characteristics, which include a comfortable cabin, a quiet cockpit, and a minimal amount of vibration. Garmin’s GFC700 autopilot configured with Electronic Stability and Protection, which also ensures a comfortable flight, is now included in the standard P2010 package. Other additional features include Italian leather interiors and electric seats.

Pilots interested in parking a new P2010 in their hangar can expect to pay anywhere from $500,000 to $535,000—with the final purchase price being dependent upon paint and interior selections.