Italian aviation legend Piaggio Aerospace is rising from the ashes with the support of Turkish drone giant Baykar. At the launch event held yesterday (27 February 2026) at Piaggio Aerospace's Villanova d'Albenga facility in Italy, the evolved version of the iconic P.180 Avanti aircraft, the Avanti NX, was unveiled. This development also heralds a new era in European aviation where Turkish technology will make its mark. Announced under the leadership of Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar, this innovation, featuring modernisations inspired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), is set to intensify competition in the sector.
Strategic Acquisition: Piaggio's Transformation Story
Baykar acquired Piaggio at the end of 2024 following approval from the Italian government, with the official transaction completed on 30 June 2025. Founded in 1884 and producing its first aircraft in 1915, Piaggio had been struggling with financial crises in recent years. Baykar's entry revitalised the company, transforming it into a European UAV production hub. Baykar, which became the world's largest UAV exporter with $1.8 billion in exports in 2023, aims to integrate civil and military aviation through this merger.
Avanti NX: An Evolution Packed with Innovation
The launch resonated globally with a post from Bayraktar: "Avanti Next. Insieme, vinciamo!" (Together we win!). The Avanti NX carries the 40-year-old P.180 platform into the future. Here are the key innovations made to the aircraft:
- Technological Upgrades: Advanced avionics systems with Garmin integration, satellite communication, and optimisations extending maintenance intervals.
- Comfort and Design: A cabin interior renewed with Italian elegance, user-focused interior improvements.
- Production Leap: Annual production capacity will be increased from 4-5 aircraft to 25-30 aircraft, supported by the entire supply chain.
- UAV Synergy: Production of models like the Bayraktar TB2 and AKINCI will begin at Piaggio facilities, with engine and maintenance centres to be established in Europe.
This transformation, ongoing since January 2026, focuses on customer demands, making the Avanti more competitive.
The Baykar Effect: Rapid Change and New Horizons
Following the acquisition, revolutionary changes took place at Piaggio. In January 2026, the first P.180 Avanti EVO was delivered to Nakanihon Air in Japan. This development was seen as a sign that Baykar had revitalised the production line. Expanding its engine production, the company is evaluating partnership opportunities with giants like Leonardo, which could accelerate new UAV developments. Baykar is increasing local employment while preserving the Italian heritage.
Market Targets: On the Path to Global Domination
The Avanti NX has its sights set on the US's vast business jet market, the world's largest civil aviation arena. Baykar plans to expand its market share by broadening its sales network in Asia and Europe. Baykar's ultimate goal is to offer sustainability-focused innovations with an annual production of 25-30 units. This launch also highlights the synergy created by the Turkish-Italian alliance in aviation. Industry analysts predict that the Avanti NX, with its environmentally friendly technologies, could upend market dynamics.
