Vulcanair Aircraft displayed the latest evolution of its four-seat V1 trainer at the 2025 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, with officials noting the design “incorporates nearly 200 improvements tailored specifically for the U.S. market.”
“These enhancements and more will be integrated into the first production aircraft manufactured at Vulcanair Aircraft North America’s new factory in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, which is scheduled to open in September 2025,” company officials said during the show.
Originally developed as the Partenavia Oscar, the Italian aircraft was first certified in the 1970s. In 1998, Vulcanair of Naples, Italy, acquired the type design, updating the aircraft before achieving FAA certification in 2017.
“Since then, the V1 has continued to evolve, and with these latest refinements, it’s now more capable than ever,” company officials said.
Designed for the flight training market, the V1’s cockpit has been modernized with an updated instrument panel, equipped with Garmin touchscreen glass avionics. The addition of a Garmin digital autopilot is in the works, according to company officials.
The aircraft features a tubular aluminum roll cage and pushrod flight controls.
“With its stabilator tail design, the V1 delivers smooth and responsive control throughout all phases of flight, with a big and beefy trim wheel that is ideal for the flight training environment,” company officials added.
The aircraft is powered by the 180-hp Lycoming IO-360 engine, which is capable of running on both 100LL avgas and unleaded alternative fuels. A redesigned engine cowling enhances cooling performance, while a 50-gallon fuel capacity allows for extended training flights.
The aircraft’s three-door configuration is designed for flight training, with amenities such as a window that opens, built-in chart pockets, and cupholders.
Future enhancements include an optional three-blade propeller for improved performance in high-density altitude conditions, vortex generators for aerodynamic efficiency, and an optional DeltaHawk jet-fuel-burning engine that will provide an alternative powerplant option for pilots looking to transition away from 100LL, company officials said.
“The V1 is already an exceptional trainer, and these latest refinements make it even better,” said Chris Benaiges, CEO of Vulcanair Aircraft North America. “The opening of our U.S. production facility is an important step forward, allowing us to build and support the aircraft right here in North America.”
The company is on schedule to open the new manufacturing facility Sept. 1, 2025, according to company officials.
Construction of the 36,000-square-foot factory began in January 2025, supported by $12.2 million in state and federal investment grants.
Once fully operational, the plant will have the capacity to produce up to 100 aircraft a year, company officials said.
Hiring will begin in late May 2025 starting with leadership roles, followed by hiring for production positions in June. The hiring of military veterans will be prioritized, company officials noted.
DeltaHawk Engine
Vulcanair Aircraft and DeltaHawk Engines continue to move forward with the integration of DeltaHawk’s FAA-certified jet-fueled piston engine for the V1, with company officials noting that certification with the FAA and EASA are progressing.
The collaboration is focused on adapting DeltaHawk’s DHK180 engine to the V1, with work underway to finalize firewall-forward integration packages for the V1.
Financing
Meanwhile the company has formed Vulcanair Aircraft Finance Corp., a new subsidiary that offers a leasing program to U.S. flight schools.
Flight schools can lease a new Vulcanair V1 for “as little as” $5,900 a month, bringing the effective hourly rate of the lease to $79.38 with 80 hours of Hobbs time included, company officials noted. Additional hours beyond 80 in a given month will be charged at $89 per hour.
“To further reduce the financial strain on operators, Vulcanair Aircraft Finance Corp. will cover engine and propeller overhaul costs as part of the leasing agreement,” company officials said.
For more information: VulcanAirUSA.com
