Market Intelligence: North America

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Blackshape Aircraft

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Niccolò Chierroni – CEO at Blackshape Aircraft – a leading manufacturer of high-performance, carbon-fiber aircraft, specializing in flight training, leisure aviation, and special missions.

The conversation covers:

  • Overview: Blackshape Aircraft is an Italian manufacturer of high-performance, fully composite aircraft for the ultralight and certified training markets. With over a decade of experience and more than 100 aircraft delivered worldwide, the company is known for its engineering precision, sleek Italian design, and commitment to innovation.
  • Expansion into the U.S. Market: A key milestone for Blackshape Aircraft was obtaining FAA certification for its Gabriel aircraft, enabling entry into the U.S. market. The company has since appointed strategic dealers in the U.S. and received significant interest from American pilots and schools. The U.S. expansion is a major growth area, especially for the new Prime Explorer, a sportier model developed in response to U.S. customer feedback.
  • Technological Advancements: Blackshape Aircraft is advancing its aircraft with new engine integrations, including Rotax 915 and 916 powerplants, and developing a future turboprop version of the Gabriel. A partnership with CMD is also underway to create a new engine platform. These innovations reflect the company’s commitment to evolving customer needs and sustainable aviation solutions.
  • Training Market Focus: With rising global demand for pilots, Blackshape Aiircraft targets both civil and military training sectors. The Gabriel’s tandem-seat configuration is ideal for advanced pilot development and aligns with modern training requirements. The company is also exploring hybrid power and side-by-side layouts for future variants to further broaden its training market reach.
  • Customer Support: Recognizing the importance of after-sales service, Blackshape is heavily investing in customer support and localized service networks. Niccolò emphasized the value of the AFM platform in supporting marketing, competitive analysis, and industry trends, enabling Blackshape Aircraft to stay informed and agile in a dynamic global market.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

ALSIM Unveils AL100i, First Simulator to Fully Replicate Piper 100i with Garmin G3X

Global – Flight simulator manufacturer ALSIM has officially launched the AL100i, a high-fidelity flight simulator replicating the Piper 100i.

  • It is the first flight simulator in the world to integrate Garmin’s original G3X and GNX375 avionics systems, mirroring the real aircraft’s features and ergonomics. This level of authenticity ensures trainees experience identical handling and avionics functionality to actual flight operations.

  • The AL100i aims to support the advanced training needs of modern flight schools, particularly those utilizing the Piper 100i in ab-initio pilot programs.

Client testimonial’s:

  • Chris Schoensee, President at Paragon Flight Training stated: “Paragon Flight Training is thrilled to be among the first flight schools in the world to utilize the new ALSIM P100i flight training device. The Piper P100i aircraft is positioned to be the dominant aircraft moving forward – and with our standardized fleet of P100i aircraft, it’s important we offer the highest caliber of flight training devices to complement our aircraft. Since we first took delivery of the aircraft two years ago, this device was the missing link that will allow Paragon’s students to partake in one of the most efficient and cost-effective student-centered learning experiences possible.“
  • Dan Hargrove, Director of Aviation, Rocky Mountain College, stated: “We have added several new Piper 100i training aircraft to our fleet. We pride ourselves in providing excellent Part 141 flight training to our students and truly preparing them for careers in many different sectors of the aviation industry. Many do go on to fly for the airlines, but likewise, others fly cargo, air ambulance, back country Alaska, firefighting, corporate and fractional. We have been looking for some time for a flight training device that is cockpit specific to both successful ease our students into our flight training program and prepare them for a variety of careers. We believe the AL100i is just what we are looking for.“

Source: ALSIM
Photo Credit: ALSIM

Related Posts