Italian manufacturer Vulcanair, along with sales agent Linford Aviation (Stand 5019), is promoting the P68R high-wing twin, which is making its Brazilian debut here at LABACE. The P68R is the executive version of the aircraft, with retractable undercarriage for high-speed passenger transport. Vulcanair also produces the P68C with fixed undercarriage that is aimed at a variety of utility applications, such as air taxi and aeromedical services, general transport (including cargo) and even for farmers and farm companies operating in sparsely populated regions. The type offers excellent one-engine performance, an important safety factor when operating over inhospitable terrain.

Vulcanair is pitching the P68 as an ideal aircraft for Brazil, and has sold P68Cs and the P68 Observer–which was previously displayed at LABACE. The Observer is a version tailored for patrol and surveillance duties with a fully glazed Plexiglas nose offering an outstanding forward and downward view. Cheaper to acquire and operate than its six-seater rivals, the P68 is beginning to make inroads into the Brazilian market. The P68R that is on show here is the first in the country, and has already been sold. It will be handed over to the customer after being used for demonstrations.

To support the Brazilian P68 fleet, Vulcanair has established two service centers, one here in São Paulo at Campo de Marte and in the northeast at Fortaleza. Furthermore, the company has certificated a number of workshops elsewhere to service the P68. Vulcanair is also looking beyond Brazil for sales, with Venezuela and Colombia seen as good opportunities.