Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero on April 24 announced it had successfully flown the first series-produced L-39NG aircraft. It is a new historical milestone when, after 20 years since the last mass-produced aircraft was flown, the first serial production L-39NG aircraft flight met all expectations. During the flight, the pilots tested the functions of the trainer aircraft within the scope of the standard factory sortie program. The flight tested the behavior of the L-39NG within its normal operating envelope.
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The first production flight of the L-39NG lasted approximately 40 minutes (Picture source: Aero)
The first production flight of the L-39NG lasted approximately 40 minutes. The pilots verified the functions of the engine, aircraft systems, and avionics, as well as the handling and behavior of the aircraft in all phases of flight from take-off through aerobatics to landing. Testing was carried out in the range of altitudes from 0 to 8,500 meters and speeds from stall to maximum (Mach 0.8, or 900 km/h).
"The flight of the first production aircraft confirmed the readiness of the L-39NG for serial delivery to our customers. The aircraft is a world leader in its class. In terms of design, flight characteristics, safety, avionics, and modern equipment, it is an excellent platform for training pilots of fourth and fifth-generation fighters," said Viktor Sotona, President and CEO of Aero.
"While this is a significant milestone from Aero's perspective, the sortie itself is a rather routine affair and is conducted after each aircraft is produced. The factory flyaway program has been previously proven on L-39NG prototypes. The first production aircraft with the serial number 7005 has fulfilled all the points of the program," add Petr Jinda, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, and Jaromir Lang, L-39NG Chief Designer, Aero.
The first production L-39NG trainer is destined for a customer in Southeast Asia. Other customers include Hungary and the Czech Republic. Aero currently has orders for 34 units of the L-39NG.
Aero recently commissioned a new production line dedicated solely to the L-39NG aircraft. Within two years, the traditional Czech aircraft manufacturer plans to increase its L-39NG production to 24 units per year. Other Czech companies are also involved in the production of the L-39NG. Over 60% of Aero's suppliers are domestic companies.
Testing was carried out in the range of altitudes from 0 to 8,500 meters and speeds from stall to maximum (Mach 0.8, or 900 km/h) (Picture source: Czech Aero)
