This is the first prototype of the PD-808, that flew on the 28 August 1964. It is interesting to remember that some hours after the first flight, this aircraft experienced during the take-off a bird ingestion into the left engine, that flamed out. The crew performed an engine-out circuit to land, without problems, unexpectedly demonstrating the good design and aircraft characteristics.

This is the second prototype of the PD-808, that first flew on 14 June 1966. It wore also a civil registration as I-PIAI. It is interesting to note the tail end, housing the braking chute.

The prototype PD808 being operated by the Italian Air Force - RSV. Seen derelict at Pratica di Mare AB on 03 Jun 2012. Still there in Jun 2023.

Preserved on the roof, ex Piaggio test aircraft.

Exhibited at Farnborough by "Piaggio Douglas"

Originally known as the Vespa Jet, designed by the Douglas Aircraft Company in a joint venture with Piaggio who built and flew the prototype in August 1964. Piaggio took over the project in 1967 and went on to build a total of 24, of which 22 served with the Italian AF. I-PIAI, one of the two company demonstrators, crashed into Mount Jaizkibel near San Sebastian in Spain on 18th June 1968 killing all six on board including businessman Lino Zanussi

The aircraft was w/o on 18 June 1968 when she hit a mountain 4 km W of San Sebastián-Fuenterrabia Airport (Spain). This picture may have been taken at the Paris Salon of 1967, but this needs confirmation.

2nd prototype

The prototype PD-808 exhibited at the 1966 Hanover Air Show in Italian Air Force markings. It wears a long nose probe during tests.