Now a Thielert powered version of their new A-viator is considered: The Casoria, Naples-based firm is developing a shorter version of the A-Viator powered by a Thielert Aircraft Engines 350hp V8 Centurion 4.0 power plant targeted at ‘cost-conscious operators’, mainly in Africa and Asia markets. ‘We believe that a diesel version will be very popular within these markets where avgas is costlier and not as plentiful as in many other parts of the world,’ says de Feo. The aircraft is scheduled for certification and first deliveries at the end of 2008. Plans to offer a diesel-fuelled P68 utility aircraft have been halted due to a 'lack of support from engine developer SMA', says de Feo. ‘The Textron Lycoming version of the P68 continues to sell well, and we had hoped to have a similar success with the 230hp SMA 305-230 diesel engine. But we have been forced to cancel the program as we could not get the aircraft certificated due to a number of technical issues,’ he says. The Casoria, Naples-based firm is continuing to evaluate the market for a shorter version of the A-Viator powered by a Thielert Aircraft Engines 350hp V8 Centurion 4.0 powerplant. ‘We will see how the industry develops over the coming months and assess whether there is a strong enough demand for this product,’ says de Feo.