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Ultralight Flying Test Bed by DigiSky Presented in Turin

On June 15, 2010, at the Turin/Aeritalia airport, the new TECNAM P.92 Super Echo “SMAT version” was officially unveiled. DigiSky has purposely modified the ultralight aircraft as a flying test bed for innovative aerial sensors. The SMAT suffix is referred to the “Sistema di Monitoraggio Avanzato del Territorio” (Advanced Environmental Monitoring System) regional programme, launched in 2009.

The main target of DigiSky is to offer this platform, based on the popular P.92 airframe, as a low cost solution to develop sensors, including a number of types envisaged for the SMAT programme. By using an ultralight aircraft, risk reduction for equipment development will be obtained in less time and cost in comparison with certified aircraft or unmanned vehicles. Last year, the Turin-based startup company had a burst of glory when its SkySpark, piloted by Maurizio Cheli, broke the World Speed Record for electric powered aircraft.

The operational base of the P.92 SMAT will be established at Turin/Aeritalia airport, as a possible first step towards a comprehensive aviation technology park, in similarity to other successful initiatives set up in many minor airports around Europe.

DigiSky is also a member of the I3P programme (Innovative Enterprises Incubator of the Turin’s Politechnic University). For this reason, the presentation of the P.92 SMAT marks the start of an “Aviation research and advanced vocational training center” promoted by the five-year open agreement between the Turin Polytechnic and the Turin Aero Club signed in November, 2009. This center is aimed to facilitate the settlement of small and medium aerospace companies at Turin/Aeritalia airport, to perform their research, development and experimental activities.

The “Young Flyers” programme was also launched during the P.92 SMART event. According to this programme, the Turin Aero Club opens its doors to students of the Turin Polytechnic and local High Schools for familiarization and initial training in various aspects of the aviation world.

In the picture: Tecnam P.92 Echo Super De Luxe SMAT I-A248, fitted as sensor flying test bed by Turin-based DigiSky. Turin/Aeritalia Airport, on June 15, 2010. (Aeromedia)

(Aeromedia, June 2010)