The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has certified Piaggio Aero’s P.180 Avanti and Avanti II, the Italy-based airframer announced at NBAA 2011 in Las Vegas. The type certification confirms that the aircraft comply with Chinese regulations and can now be registered and operated in the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.

The use of Chinese-grade fuel was also approved. The P.180 Avanti II, billed by Piaggio as the world’s fastest turboprop, was previously certified by both EASA and the FAA. It boasts a maximum speed of 402 knots, a range of nearly 1,500 nm and a standup cabin.