Piper Aircraft has received US production certification for its M600 single-engined turboprop, paving the way for the US airframer to produce, test fly and issue airworthiness certification for each of the six-seat aircraft that rolls off its production line in Vero Beach, Florida.

Company president and chief executive Simon Caldecott describes the award as “the latest in a series of significant milestones” for its newest and most advanced model
Launched by Piper in April 2015 as a development of its M500 entry-level turboprop, the flagship features a redesigned wing, digital fuel management technology and a restyled interior.

The M600 secured US certification in June, and customer deliveries began the following month. So far, Piper has handed over three of the $2.85 million aircraft to US-based owners.

Piper says production for 2016 is already sold out, and it is now taking orders for next year. The manufacturer is limiting annual output to 35 aircraft, in a bid to maintain a sustainable and stable production cycle for years to come.