Tecnam, a renowned Italian aircraft manufacturer, has announced the sale of six aircraft to FSTC EUROPE, as part of a broader commitment for 25 new training aircraft to be delivered by the end of 2027. The initial batch includes four P-Mentor single-engine trainers and two of the latest-generation P2006T NG twin-engine aircraft.
This acquisition positions FSTC EUROPE, a Greece-based Approved Training Organisation (ATO), as one of Europe’s leading P-Mentor operators. A rebranded identity for the organisation’s training arm is expected to be unveiled in the near future.
Advanced Platforms for Comprehensive Pilot Training
Tecnam’s aircraft were selected to serve as the backbone of FSTC’s expanding fleet, offering state-of-the-art technology and a comprehensive solution for both initial and advanced flight training. The aircraft will be used for a full range of pilot qualifications, including the Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Instrument Rating (IR), and Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) training.
At the core of this fleet expansion is the Tecnam P-Mentor, a modern two-seat, single-engine piston aircraft specifically designed to meet the needs of 21st-century flight schools. Fully compliant with the latest EASA CS-23 and FAA standards, the P-Mentor provides a seamless training journey from the first flight through to CPL-IR. The platform includes capabilities such as PBN/RNAV navigation, simulated retractable landing gear, variable-pitch propeller, and an autopilot system, delivering real-world complexity in a simplified training environment.
Critically, the aircraft’s generous fuel capacity allows for all-day operations without the need for refuelling, a significant operational advantage. Low maintenance and fuel costs, combined with its advanced avionics and human-machine interface, make the P-Mentor an exceptionally cost-effective solution for flight training organisations worldwide.
P2006T NG: A Modern Twin for Complex Training
The twin-engine Tecnam P2006T NG (Next Generation) rounds out the fleet with a sophisticated training option for multi-engine and instrument flight instruction. This latest iteration features a Garmin glass cockpit with dual high-definition displays, integrated terrain and navigation data, and a two-axis autopilot, ideal for complex training environments.
Powered by two Rotax 912iSc3 engines, the P2006T NG is notable for its ability to run on either AVGAS or MOGAS, reducing both fuel costs and environmental impact. Its lightweight design, combined with a fully IFR-capable avionics suite, offers students hands-on experience with retractable gear, variable-pitch propellers, and real-world systems – all while lowering CO₂ emissions by up to 10 tonnes per cadet, compared to traditional 100LL-fuelled trainers.
Strategic Alignment and Shared Vision
Commenting on the announcement, Capt Kostas Katsikias, CEO of FSTC EUROPE, stated:
“We are proud to collaborate with Tecnam, a leading global training aircraft manufacturer. Their aircraft, particularly with added capabilities such as ACAS, synthetic vision, and PBN compliance, align perfectly with our mission to deliver the highest quality training to the next generation of professional aviators.”
Walter Da Costa, Tecnam’s Chief Sales Officer, added: “A flying school’s success depends on modern, cost-effective, and safe aircraft. Tecnam’s innovative designs and Italian craftsmanship provide exactly that. FSTC EUROPE continues to raise the standard for flight training in Europe.”
FSTC EUROPE: A Centre of Aviation Excellence
With headquarters in Elefsina, just west of Athens, FSTC EUROPE has built a strong reputation as one of Europe’s foremost training providers. The organisation offers programmes for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff, and is notable for being led by a team of experienced pilots from both civil and military aviation.
In recognition of its growth and strategic partnerships, FSTC EUROPE was honoured in 2022 by the Chamber of Tradesmen and the Greek Ministry of Development. Its long-standing relationship with Tecnam underscores a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
The combination of Tecnam’s cutting-edge training platforms and FSTC’s proven instructional capabilities positions the partnership as a model for modern aviation education, one that is highly relevant to African training organisations seeking to modernise fleets and curricula in line with global standards.
