ASTORE, Tecnam Astore light sport aircraft

By Dan Johnson, 
By their reported numbers Tecnam lays claim to be the largest producer of very light aircraft. I use that term versus Light-Sport Aircraft as the Italian manufacturer is not the leading LSA seller yet their sales figures support the company being the world's largest for LSA-type aircraft. 

For at least the last couple years, Tecnam has reported sales numbers in the 200 per year range. I have no way to independently verify that volume but it's clear they are a success story. 

Tecnam's website states, "With over 3,500 Tecnam airplanes operating around the world today, Tecnam customers and operators are supported by a global network of over 60 dealers and 100 Tecnam Service Centers." 

They boast a wide range models, including Eaglet, P2008, the aerobatic Snap, the newly introduced (to Americans) Astore, and their Twin. 

Astore was first seen at Germany's Aero show. By the American debut on opening day Tuesday at Sun 'n Fun 2014, the airplane had taken to the air (in June 2013), production was started, and the first deliveries begun. 

All Tecnam models other than Sierra are high wings but Astore updates the earlier Sierra with a sleek low wing design that shows the high state of the art from the Italian manufacturer.  Tecnam makes complete use of the Apple iPad Mini that comes as part of its American version.

On the popular touchscreen device customers will receive a pre-installed, dedicated app that can compute the actual weight and balance plus provide checklists and includes all sections of the Pilot Operating Handbook. Tecnam to offer the Garmin G3X Touch.

In addition to revealing their new Astore, Tecnam made a major announcement that should provide their most significant move yet to support American customers. At a press briefing at their exhibit at Sun 'n Fun, they announced the establishment of Tecnam US Inc. with a 21,000 square foot hangar and office location at Sebring Airport, Florida where they will start offering customer service and support, spare parts, plus reassembly of LSA and Part 23 certified aircraft models shipped from Italy. 

Sebring will also become the base for North American sales and marketing led by Director of Sales, Shannon Yeager. 

Sebring Airport Director Mike Willingham said, "We are proud to be the home of the annual US Sport Aviation Expo [and are pleased about] Tecnam choosing Sebring as the showcase facility in North America." Tecnam expressed gratitude for the advice and support of Phil Solomon and Tommy Grimes of Heart of Virginia Aviation. 

As the former distributor, HOVA will continue representing Tecnam along with West Coast Sport Aircraft in California and the Midwest Company located in Minnesota. "All locations will have Tecnam aircraft demonstrators available for flight tests by prospective customers," said company officials. 

Not content to rest on a new model and a new U.S. location, Tecnam also announced a new payment program that could alter how LSA are sold in America. "A new payment policy has been introduced that is simple and straightforward," said Tecnam. "A 10% deposit is payable at the time an order is placed, with the remaining 90% payment not due until the aircraft [has received its airworthiness certificate] and is ready to fly from either the Florida or California assembly facility."