Key Features of the Piaggio/Partenavia/Vulcanair P.68 Series:
- Versatile Cabin: Typically seats 6, but some variants can accommodate more (e.g., the Observer 2 can be certified for 1+6). The cabin can be configured for passenger transport, observation, or cargo.
- Reliable Performance: Powered by two Lycoming piston engines (various models depending on the variant), known for their reliability. Some later versions have been fitted with turbocharged engines or even diesel engines.
- Efficient Operation: Generally considered economical for a twin-engine aircraft. Fuel consumption for a P68 Observer is around 60 liters/16.6 USG per hour at 55% power.
- Excellent Visibility (Observer variants): A key feature of the "Observer" series is a fully glazed nose, providing almost helicopter-like forward and downward visibility, making it ideal for surveillance, patrol, and photography.
- Short Runway Capability: Designed to take off and land on relatively short and even unprepared strips.
- Baggage Capacity: Offers a useful baggage capacity for its size.
- Special Mission Capabilities: The Observer versions are widely used by law enforcement, surveillance companies, and for search and rescue due to the visibility and optional camera hatches.
Technical Data (Note: Specifications can vary significantly depending on the specific P.68 variant and model year):
Here are some general specifications based on common P.68 variants:
- Engines: 2 x Lycoming IO-360-A1B6 air-cooled horizontally-opposed engines, 200 hp (150 kW) each (typical for many piston variants). Turbocharged and diesel engine options also exist.
- Maximum Cruise Speed: Around 160-175 knots (184-201 mph, 296-324 km/h) for piston engine versions. Turboprop versions like the A-Viator would be significantly faster.
- Range (Normal): Typically around 1,100 - 1,400 nautical miles (1,266 - 1,611 statute miles, 2,037 - 2,593 km) for piston engine versions.
- Service Ceiling: Around 19,000 - 20,000 feet (5,791 - 6,096 meters) for piston engine versions. Turbocharged versions would have a higher ceiling.
- Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW): Varies by variant but generally relatively short, in the range of 1,000 - 1,500 feet (305 - 457 meters).
- Landing Distance (SL, ISA, MLW): Similar to takeoff distance.
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Around 4,300 - 4,600 lbs (1,950 - 2,087 kg) for many piston variants.
- Cabin Height: Approximately 4.8 - 4.9 feet (1.46 - 1.49 meters).
- Cabin Width: Approximately 4.0 feet (1.22 meters).
- Cabin Length: Approximately 10 - 12 feet (3.05 - 3.66 meters) depending on configuration.
P.68 with JETVIP:
The Piaggio/Vulcanair P.68 series could present certain opportunities for JETVIP clients:
- Specialized Charter: The "Observer" variants, with their exceptional visibility, are well-suited for specialized charter operations such as aerial photography, surveillance, pipeline or powerline inspection, and search and rescue missions.
- Regional Travel (Piston Variants): The standard passenger versions offer a cost-effective twin-engine option for regional travel for smaller groups, especially to airports with shorter runways.
- Acquisition for Specific Missions: For organizations requiring an aircraft for surveillance, law enforcement, or utility transport, the P.68 Observer or cargo-configured variants could be a practical acquisition. The piston engine versions offer lower operating costs compared to many jets and some larger turboprops.
To determine the suitability of a specific P.68 variant for your charter or acquisition needs through JETVIP in Vienna, Austria, it's essential to consider:
- The specific variant: P.68, P.68B, P.68C, P.68 Observer, P.68 Observer 2, P.68C-TC (turbocharged), P.68 Diesel, and potentially turboprop versions like the A-Viator have different performance and capabilities.
- Your mission requirements: Passenger capacity, range, speed, runway limitations, and any specialized equipment needs (like camera hatches for Observer models).
- Availability on the charter or pre-owned market.
Contact JETVIP today with your specific requirements, and our team can explore if a Piaggio/Vulcanair P.68 series aircraft aligns with your needs for operations in or from Vienna, Austria.