Piaggio said today it has embarked on a "new phase" in the development of its planned jet by beginning to line up partners and suppliers.

Although a formal launch by the Italian manufacturer - which makes the Avanti II twin pusher - remains some time off, partners are "very enthusiastic" about the programme, chief commercial officer Giuliano Felten told a press conference this morning.

Piaggio has also announced that the 203-strong fleet of Avanti II and its Avanti predecessor has passed the 500,000 flight hours milestone.

 

Source: Flight Daily News