Tecnam Multi Mission Aircraft

Airborne Technologies of Austria (www.airbornetechnologies.at) has recently announced a multi-mission version of the twin-engined Tecnam P2006T. The standard P2006T received its FAR23 certification in May this year, by which time it had already attracted almost 100 orders from around the world.

The Tecnam MMA (Multi Mission Aircraft) is targeted at organisations requiring an affordable, economical surveillance platform.

The MMA features an additional heavy-duty alternator and battery for independent mission power supply and an independent ground-power supply socket.

The cabin of the aircraft, which is normally fitted with four seats in the standard P2006, is configured for two—a pilot and systems operator—and carries an individual operator desk.

The structure features a hatch with retractable sensor support and hardpoints for various antenna installations.

Like all current Tecnam types, the P2006T features conventional aluminium construction that offers ease of maintenance in any operating environment, which is expected to appeal to operators needing such a platform in austere or remote locations.

Fitted with the same 100 hp Rotax 912 engines as the standard P2006T, the MMA version is also capable of using premium automotive fuel as well as Avgas, or any blend of the two. At its maximum takeoff weight of 1,180 kg, the P2006T is lighter than comparable single-engined four-seat aircraft of 180–200 hp and with a typical mission fuel burn of around 30 litres an hour (15 l/hr per engine) the P2006T is more economical than most older single-engined general aviation types, while offering twin-engine reliability.

The MMA (P2006T) has a maximum speed of 148 knots and a 65% cruise speed (at 9,000 ft) of 135 knots. It has a takeoff distance (to 50 ft) of 370 metres and a landing distance (over a 50 ft obstacle) of 390 metres. It will have more than five hours’ endurance in typical mission configuration.