Vulcan Air, manufacturer of the successful P68 twin-turboprop family, plans to take on Cessna with its new VF600W Mission.
Making its debut at the show the aircraft is designed specifically to compete with the Cessna Caravan - and the Italian company says it can bring it to market at under $1 million, undercutting Cessna by around US$600,000.
Carlo De Feo, president and CEO of the Naples-based company he bought out of bankruptcy in 1998, says he is delighted with progress on the aircraft.
After some initial delays the programme got underway about 18 months ago.
He is particularly pleased with the Czech-built two-shaft turbine Walter Engine which has been "completely westernised."
He stresses this is a "serious aircraft" and says the full telemetry system on the prototype is a sign of how comprehensive the certification process is being adhered to.
"We made first flight at the end of 2002 and we plan to have certification in December or January.
"Not only will we deliver a plane at a much lower price to the Caravan but we also project direct operating costs around 30% lower.
Since acquiring what was formerly Patren Avia, De Feo has embarked on a strategy of "industrialisation" which has seen commonality built into the product line and resulting efficiencies.
At present the company, which employs 160 people, is producing one aircraft a month but De Feo aims to double this.
He says he has confirmed orders for the Mission but declines to give numbers or name customers - likely to be military or governmental bodies.
Source: Flight Daily News