The L-39NG visited the 59th Air Force Base of the Hungarian Defence Forces in Kecskemét, to perform the evaluation flights with representatives of the Hungarian Air Force.

The L-39NG second flight prototype with MSN 7004 landed at the Hungarian air base on Tuesday, November 17. In the following days, a mixed Czech-Hungarian crew performed totally three evaluation flights. “Our well experienced pilots flew with the L-39NG and their impression of the aircraft was very positive. The L-39NG is a good and modern training aircraft with a great potential for the future,” said the Chief of the Hungarian Air Force, Major General Nandor Kilian.

Aero Vodochody test pilot David Jahoda presented the new Czech aircraft to the Hungarian side. “First, there was an introduction of the aircraft on the ground and pre-flight preparation. Then two flight instructors from the Hungarian Gripen squadron flew the aircraft in the rear cockpit for instructor and Maj. Tibor Molnar also completed a flight in the front cockpit,” said factory pilot David Jahoda.

The Hungarian Air Force has historically good experience with aircraft from Aero Vodochody production. Until 2009, this Central European country had operated a squadron of L-39 Albatros (since 1993, a total of 20 L-39 aircraft and then 12 aircraft since 1998). From 2007 to 2010, they also trained their pilots on leased L-159 aircraft. Both types made a very good impression in Hungary for their flight characteristics and operational capabilities.

L-39NG is a new aircraft from production of Aero Vodochody. It offer balanced aircraft characteristics and performance while using advanced aircraft technologies, an effective and sophisticated pilot and ground personnel training concept and easy maintenance. On the other hand, acquisition and operational cost of L-39NG are very reasonable. The L-39NG is able to cover multiple training phases In September 2020, the Military Aviation Authority of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic has certified the L-39NG aircraft to the new supranational military standards, EMAR 21 and EMACC, which is recognized by all EU and NATO military authorities.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

(www.aero.cz) In December 2020, it will be twenty years of operation of the L-159 ALCA light combat aircraft the Czech Air Force. The L-159 aircraft had played significant role in adapting the Czech tactical pilots to the new operational standards, and today, it is preparing new pilots before the transition to supersonic JAS-39 Gripen.

On July 4, 1997, the Ministry of Defence and Aero Vodochody signed an agreement about supply of 72 single-seat light-attack aircraft. The first two L-159s landed at air base in Čáslav on April 10, 2000, to undergo military tests in the following months. After this testing, the type was introduced into the Czech army on 28^th December 2000, and the first two aircraft soon entered service at Čáslav air base.

The original plan was to operate L-159s from two air bases: Čáslav and Náměšť nad Oslavou, where the first machines landed in May 2001. However, before Aero delivered the last ordered piece in February 2004, it was decided to keep in active service only 24 aircraft in Čáslav. The remaining L-159s were therefore withdrawn from operation in the autumn 2003; they were stored first in Pardubice and later in Aero. In 2014, most of them were sold, part to the Iraqi Air Force, part to the US company Draken International.

From the very beginning, the training of Czech L-159 pilots indicated absence of a double-seat version. Based on the requirements of the Czech Air Force, the first four double-seat L-159T1 aircraft, using the maximum number of existing components, were delivered in 2007.

The original configuration of the L-159T1 was suitable for adaptive training and advanced training of young pilots or for checking the pilot skills of current L-159 pilots. However, an option of combat training was limited due to the equipment of the aircraft. These factors therefore led the Czech Air Force to define the basic requirements of a fully equipped two-seat version L-159T2.

The L-159T2 is a two-seater aircraft in an extended configuration, able to provide advanced and combat training. The L-159T2 aircraft have several significant improvements, mostly in equipment of both cockpits and in the fuel system, and are fully NVG compatible. Each cockpit is further equipped with two Multi-Function Displays and upgraded version of an ejection seat VS-20. The aircraft is also adapted to offer a pressure refuelling capability. The Grifo radar, commonly used in the single-seat version, is now integrated also into the dual seat L-159T2 as well as the self-protection systems. Some of the above-mentioned components were then installed on the L-159T1 during the regular maintenance. The machines are now marked L-159T1+.

Recently, there was also a significant event in the fleet of single-seater L-159. In April 2019, the Ministry of Defence signed an agreement with Aero Vodochody about overhauls of 16 aircraft so-called PP16, i.e. periodic work after sixteen years of operation. The contract includes the renewal of operating period for another eight years, but also several modernizations.

Currently, the Czech Air Force has sixteen single-seat L-159 aircraft, five two-seat L-159T+ aircraft, and three two-seat L-159T2 aircraft. The L-159s perform important tasks in the Czech Air Force. A whole generation of new pilots has grown up on it. Today, they represent full partners in air operations with other NATO air forces.

Anniversary camouflage

The L-159 aircraft with registration number 6070 in special camouflage commemorating the 20 years of the L-159 in the Czech Air Force. The chosen colours are identical to the camouflage of Pandur II army vehicles. This idea symbolizes the Close Air Support role of the L-159s. This aircraft in the anniversary camouflage was presented for the first time as part of L-159’s flight formation at the NATO Days in Ostrava.

(www.aero.cz) Shortly after the L-39NG training version certification, an important initial step in the preparation of its armed version has been completed. A series of L-39NG tests took place in the low-speed wind tunnel of the Czech Aerospace Research Centre in Prague (VZLU), this time the tests were focused on the ability of the aircraft to carry various weapon systems.

“In cooperation with the VZLU, we have completed the data collection phase from the wind tunnel before the aircraft will be converted to the armed version and before the flight tests will begin next year. Our goal was to experimentally verify the expected deviations of aerodynamic performance that might be different from the training version,” said the head of the L-39NG program Vojtěch Labuda from Aero Vodochody. For the needs of measurement, a model of the aircraft was 3D printed using the scale of 1:6.6. The model was subsequently measured using six-component internal strain gauge balance in a low-speed wind tunnel (wind tunnel measuring space has a diameter of three meters).

At first, measurements on the aircraft without pods took place, and then the aircraft with different types of pods, weapons, flap settings and different types of wing ends was measured. All weapon models were also made by 3D printing.

The L-39NG aircraft has five pods for carrying a wide range of weapons, starting with a machine gun calibre 12.7 millimetres or cannons calibre 20 millimetres, bombs up to 250 kilograms, unguided air-to-ground missiles or air-to-air missiles. The integration of laser guidance of weapons is also in consideration.

Before the flight tests, it was necessary to verify the effect on flight characteristics and performance by tests in the wind tunnel. During the measurements, the influence of the angle of attack and the angle of sideslip on the aerodynamic characteristics of the aircraft with different variants of weapons and settings of the flaps was investigated.

In addition to static measurements, which determine the forces and momentum strengths on the aircraft, dynamic measurements were also performed. This determines the aerodynamic damping for the flying qualities purposes.

“In a half a year, we have performed more than 200 measurements, in 30 different configurations, from a clean aircraft to a fully equipped aircraft with tilted flaps. During these measurements, it turned out that the aerodynamic model is fully capable of carrying a wide range of weapons in various configurations,” said Pavel Hospodář from VZLU. The measured data will be used for calculations of flight performance.

Watch the interview with Dieter John – president & CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE and its strategic partner OMNIPOL announced that the L-39NG aircraft has received its type certificate. Based on the positive results of ground and flight tests, the certification was issued by the Military Aviation Authority of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic.

The new aircraft, which continues in the tradition of the legendary L-39 Albatros training aircraft, received its type certification less than two years after roll out of the first prototype.

The type certificate means that the aircraft is now eligible to operate in international air space and meets all safety requirements. It is also an important prerequisite for deliveries to customers. The L-39NG is one of the first military aircraft which has been certified to the new supranational military standards (EMAR 21 and EMACC), which means that its certification is recognized by all EU and NATO military authorities. The certification of the aircraft proceeded according to plan. As part of the tests, Aero performed about 300 test flights on two flying prototypes, and extensive ground tests on two static prototypes.

It is the completion of 13 years with Penta as the single shareholder of Aero Vodochody. “This is a turning point, an extraordinary success for Aero employees, which proves that bringing production of a new Czech designed and developed military aircraft back to Aero was the right decision. The current investment in the project has exceeded CZK 2 billion, and it represents the basis for a good future of the company,” said Marek Dospiva, co-owner of Penta Investments.

“This is great news for the L-39NG and for the entire Czech aviation industry. Receiving a type certificate is an important step in the development of the aircraft and at the same time, it is an important message for our customers. I would like to thank all those who contributed to this exceptional success,” added Jiří Podpěra, President of Omnipol, which is the strategic partner in this new aircraft project.

“This milestone is our important news for the traditional NATO Days in Ostrava, as we promised it last year. The L-39NG is a completely new aircraft excelling all current and future requirements for modern training of pilots coupled with very competitive cost of ownership. We believe that the certification will significantly contribute to future orders, which we will be able to announce soon. My sincere thanks to all employees, suppliers and partners for their professional efforts and excellent collaboration,” said Dieter John, President and CEO of Aero Vodochody.

The development of the aircraft does not end with obtaining a type certificate. Further improvements and expansion of capabilities according to customer requirements will be gradually added to the certification process.

The brand new L-39NG jet aircraft is a joint project of Aero Vodochody, its shareholder Penta Investments, and the OMNIPOL group, which is the strategic partner and equal co-owner of the L-39NG project. Based on an Agreement signed in June 2020, Penta Investments will hand over Aero Vodochody to its new owners, represented by OMNIPOL with 49% and Hungarian businessman András Tombor with 51%.

The L-39NG aircraft will once again be present at NATO Days. This time, both flight prototypes will appear – one on a static display in the VIP zone, the other at the beginning of Saturday’s flight demonstration.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective light jet capable to serve in a role of light attack and/or unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 with optimized features to reduce resistance and increase efficiency and utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is the Czech company OMNIPOL by having 50% of share and financial contribution in the project.

After thirteen years, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE changes owner. The group of companies into which AERO Vodochody belongs, has been bought from the Penta Group by AERO Investment Partners Zrt, a company registered in Hungary. This is a joint venture between a Czech company AERO International, part of the OMNIPOL group and a renowned businessman from Hungary. The OMNIPOL group will be responsible for management of the new company.

The signing of the contract on June 11, 2020 confirms the transfer of 100% of the shares of the holding owning Czech company AERO Vodochody to AERO Investment Partners Zrt. The majority of 51% of the shares of AERO Investment Partners Zrt. is owned by Hungarian businessman András Tombor with the remaining 49% of the shares being owned by the Czech company AERO International s.r.o. The effectiveness of the Aero transfer is, among others, subject of approval of relevant antitrust authorities.

The minority owner, AERO International s.r.o., is in the hands of Richard Háva and his family, which owns the OMNIPOL Group. The OMNIPOL Group will be responsible for the day to day management of the new company and will therefore be a guarantor of having experienced and professional managers running the business.

The company Airport Vodochody a.s., is not part of this transaction and will remain in the possession of the current owner Penta Investments. AERO’s right to use the airport for its development stems from a contractual obligation agreed between the parties.

“AERO is one of the strongest Czech brands and a concept that rightly inspires national pride in many people. AERO not only has a great past, but above all also huge potential for the future. We want to build on the tradition of the company and restore its reputation on the Czech and world market. We will develop all three pillars of AERO’s existing activities, namely, support for users of aircraft produced by the company, cooperation with the world’s major aerospace manufacturers and, of course, the L-39NG project,” says Richard Háva.

The OMNIPOL Group has a very long history with AERO, over the past decades it has been responsible for exporting almost all of the aircraft from its production lines. Since 2015, OMNIPOL has also been the strategic partner in the project for the next generation of L-39 aircraft: L-39NG. As a 50% shareholder of these projects, the group has already worked very closely with AERO over the past five years.

The new majority owner of the company, András Tombor is an experienced, regionally renowned businessman, who has a proven track record of many successful investments in various fields of the economy. The entry by such an investor into AERO will make a major contribution to the owners’ efforts to stabilize the company and secure its future developments.

“In our portfolio AERO was not one of the companies that we wanted to develop in the long term,” said Marek Dospiva, co-owner of Penta Investments. Penta acquired AERO in a privatization tender in 2006, turning a company with a billion-dollar loss into a thriving company in less than two years. By fundamentally changing the strategy in 2016, it decided on AERO’s return to the production of its own aircraft and to focus primarily on military programs.

Tobias Tvrdik, Aero Vodochody

The fatigue test of the L-39NG jet aircraft, proving the service life of the new airframe in the length of 5,000 flight hours, has started in the Czech Aerospace Research Centre (VZLÚ).

The process of airframe tests will be performed by fatigue load sequence simulating the real operating loads of the aircraft. In total, up to five service lives will be tested, where 1 life (5,000 flight hours) will consist of at average 650,000 cycles. The number of proven service lives is in accordance with the European military regulation EMACC, which defines the rules for the L-39NG type certification.

Compared to its predecessor L-39 Albatros, the new generation aircraft should have three times longer lifespan. “Depending on how the aircraft is used, according to the loads on the structure during flights, the estimated life of the L-39NG is up to 15,000 hours, which is significantly higher than the lifespan of the L-39 Albatros. This is one of many arguments for our potential customers, confirming that their investment in the new aircraft will bring them great benefit,” said Dieter John, President & CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.

For the purpose of the fatigue test, the company Aero Vodochody produced an aircraft with manufacturing serial number 7003. “The aircraft 7003 was delivered to VZLÚ in several parts. After installation of some testing equipment, it was assembled by experts from Aero. The testing equipment consists mainly of units for load transfer and balancing of own weight,” says David Novotný, the test engineer of VZLÚ responsible for this project.

The fatigue test at VZLÚ has begun on May 25, 2020 and will take almost two years. For the purpose of certification, Aero Vodochody has committed to test the first two service lives, which is expected by autumn 2020 thanks to the continuous run of the test, interrupted only by regular inspections.

The airframe was placed in a sophisticated test rig that will simulate operation of the aircraft through controlled loading of individual parts of the aircraft. The testing will simulate take-offs and landings, the flight itself, as well as various additional cases specific for aircraft with underwing weapons. Thanks to the 24/7 test regime, interrupted only by regular inspections, it is expected to prove the 1^st and 2^nd life by the autumn 2020.

The L-39NG is a joint project of two private companies, the largest Czech aerospace manufacturer AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE and its strategic partner, business and military manufacturing company OMNIPOL.

The L-39NG aircraft overview:

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective light jet capable to serve in a role of light attack and/or unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 with optimized features to reduce resistance and increase efficiency and utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is the Czech company OMNIPOL by having 50% of share and financial contribution in the project.

VZLÚ

Czech Aerospace Research Centre is a national centre for research, development and testing in aeronautics and space. Its mission is to provide scientific support and create innovative solutions that can be applied in industry.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design, manufacturing maintenance, overhaul and upgrade of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft.

With a track record of 11.000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a broad coverage of 60 military operators and 15 demo teams, a huge existing fleet of L-39 Albatrosses and with a brand new aircraft, the L-39NG now, Aero is maintaining its positioning as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programmes, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

OMNIPOL

OMNIPOL is a Prague headquartered investment and trading group with more than eighty-five years of experience in both the domestic international markets. The company provides cutting-edge solutions for the defence and security sectors.

OMNIPOL is the owner of two very well known subsidiaries namely ERA and MESIT. They are both production companies with advanced technologies, which mainly focus on passive systems for monitoring air, land and naval targets, military communications, aircraft instruments and precision engineering production, including its own foundry together with galvanic processes. They also deal with related software products, but also cybersecurity, both for the military and civilian sectors. The entire OMNIPOL Group employs more than 1,400 professionals, of which over 200 employees are involved in research and development of new products.

Tobiáš Tvrdík, PR manager

The new light jet trainer aircraft L-39NG from Czech aircraft manufacturer AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s., opened the flight envelope up to the full range of expected heights and speeds by completing another series of flight tests. Based on the results, maximum speed of 490 KCAS / Mach 0.8 was permitted and maximum ceiling of 38,000 feet (11,580 meters) was allowed.

In configuration with a full integral tank in the so-called wet wing, the highest speeds achieved during flight tests were 509.4 KTAS (943.4 km / h) and Mach = 0.822. In terms of the flight test program, flight qualities and performances has begun, such as take-offs, landings, rates of climb, G-loads, fuel consumptions, etc.

“The L-39NG project team has completed a crucial and very challenging phase of the flight testing. After a series of ground tests, we successfully proved the airframe strength during the flight without any critical case. Thanks to these tests, we confirmed that the L-39NG design has exceptional robustness and stability,” said Jaromír Lang, chief designer of the L-39NG.

The opening of the L-39NG envelope was preceded by a set of flutter tests in order to verify the aircraft’s resistance and its structure ability to damp spontaneous oscillations induced by external aerodynamic forces in flight. During the flutter tests, the aircraft structure oscillations were initiated by small rockets at the wing tips or by impulses to the flight control system caused by the test pilot. Afterwards, an analysis of measured vibrations was taking place. For this purpose, the Aero test pilots completed a series of test flights at different altitudes and speeds. All those flights were performed by the first flight prototype with manufacturing serial number 7001. During the flutter test, a total number of 192 rockets were fired, including 144 rockets fired in flight and 48 rockets in ground tests. Total number of 352 measurement cases were made and analysed.

“We achieved significant progress in ground and flight testing so far. With two L-39NG flying prototypes in the air since middle of April plus our technical demonstrator, we are very well prepared for our remaining journey to certify the aircraft in the third quarter of 2020,” said Dieter John, President & CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.

“Opening the flight envelope of the L-39NG is an important milestone not only for the whole project, but above all for our further dealings with our business partners and potential customers,” said Jiří Podpěra, President of OMNIPOL, the strategic partner of the L-39NG project with equal 50% participation.

L-39NG achieved additional successful results in ground tests. The static strength tests have been running since the middle of last year at the Czech Aerospace Research Centre (VZLÚ). On the second prototype with manufacturing serial number 7002, the strength test of the wing with combined load of torsion plus bending was done up to 100% of the ultimate load (150% of the limit load) without any damage. The wing strength test until structural failure will take a place in the first half of April. In the VZLU, the L-39NG already achieved destructive strength test of the fuselage and it was absolutely successful.

The L-39NG aircraft overview:

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective light jet capable to serve in a role of light attack and/or unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 with optimized features to reduce resistance and increase efficiency and utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is the Czech company OMNIPOL by having 50% of share and financial contribution in the project. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design, manufacturing maintenance, overhaul and upgrade of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft.

With a track record of 11.000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a broad coverage of 60 military operators and 15 demo teams, a huge existing fleet of L-39 Albatrosses and with a brand new aircraft, the L-39NG now, Aero is maintaining its positioning as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programmes, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

OMNIPOL

OMNIPOL is a Prague headquartered investment and trading group with more than eighty-five years of experience in both the domestic international markets. The company provides cutting-edge solutions for the defence and security sectors.

OMNIPOL is the owner of two very well known subsidiaries namely ERA and MESIT. They are both production companies with advanced technologies, which mainly focus on passive systems for monitoring air, land and naval targets, military communications, aircraft instruments and precision engineering production, including its own foundry together with galvanic processes. They also deal with related software products, but also cybersecurity, both for the military and civilian sectors. The entire OMNIPOL Group employs more than 1,400 professionals, of which over 200 employees are involved in research and development of new products.

Tereza Vrublová, spokesperson

One of the most important strength tests of the L-39NG (serial number 7002) – the fuselage strength test – has been performed at the Czech Aerospace Research Centre (VZLU). A successful static test can be considered as an important milestone on the road to full certification of the aircraft.

The purpose of the tests was to verify the strength of the airframe according to the requirements of the European military regulation EMACC. During previous tests, the fuselage was loaded by bending, by inertial forces of the engine and also by forces from the horizontal tail. The last realized test represented the most critical case, it is the combined bending load of the horizontal and vertical tail.

In this test, the aircraft fuselage was loaded to the limit load at first, corresponding to the maximal possible aircraft load in flight, where no permanent deformation of the fuselage has been noted. Subsequent load to ultimate load (150% of the limit load) was performed and the fuselage was intentionally loaded with higher forces leading to a structural failure that occurred at 110% of the ultimate load. The difference between the ultimate load and the limit load represents in aviation worldwide the standard safety factor of 1,5.

Tests of a similar scale are carried out in the Czech Republic especially when a new type of aircraft is being certified and their preparation usually takes months, sometimes years. For each aircraft it is necessary to design a unique method of experimental verification of airplane properties. Therefore, this was an important event for the employees of the Czech Aerospace Research Centre. David Novotný from VZLU notes: “The intention of the test was to withstand the load corresponding to the maximal ultimate load. This proved the strength of the structure. During the test we have reached 120% of the ultimate load, then a deformation appeared, which disallowed further continuation without the risk of destroying the fuselage. At the same time, we have achieved the necessary failure mode and the structure proved the appropriate reserve for future aircraft development. Therefore the test was successful.”

The path of the second prototype in VZLU is not finished yet. The fuselage number 7002 will undergo further tests. “We will continue with pilot seat hinge tests and the test of engine bed in the forward direction, which is actually an emergency case,” adds David Novotný.

As part of the L-39NG certification, another important step has been taken. But the whole process is not completed yet. “Now we have a campaign to examine the wing limit states, then we have another partial test and at the moment we are basically launching a campaign of fatigue experiments at VZLU, which is another big part of the certification process,” concludes Pavel Henzl from Aero Vodochody.

The L-39NG is a joint project of two private companies, the largest Czech aerospace manufacturer AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE and its strategic partner, business and military manufacturing company OMNIPOL.

The L-39NG aircraft overview:

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective light jet capable to serve in a role of light attack and/or unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 with optimized features to reduce resistance and increase efficiency and utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is the Czech company OMNIPOL by having 50% of share and financial contribution in the project. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design, manufacturing maintenance, overhaul and upgrade of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft.

With a track record of 11.000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a broad coverage of 60 military operators and 15 demo teams, a huge existing fleet of L-39 Albatrosses and with a brand new aircraft, the L-39NG now, Aero is maintaining its positioning as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programmes, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

OMNIPOL

OMNIPOL is a Prague headquartered investment and trading group with more than eighty-five years of experience in both the domestic international markets. The company provides cutting-edge solutions for the defence and security sectors.

OMNIPOL is the owner of two very well known subsidiaries namely ERA and MESIT. They are both production companies with advanced technologies, which mainly focus on passive systems for monitoring air, land and naval targets, military communications, aircraft instruments and precision engineering production, including its own foundry together with galvanic processes. They also deal with related software products, but also cybersecurity, both for the military and civilian sectors. The entire OMNIPOL Group employs more than 1,400 professionals, of which over 200 employees are involved in research and development of new products.

Tobiáš Tvrdík, PR manager

In 2020, we wish you only successful take-offs, safe flights and happy landings.

The Czech Air Force took over from domestic manufacturer AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. the last of five L-159T1 two-seat aircraft after PP2000 maintenance. Now, the 21^st Tactical Air Force Base Čáslav has a total of eight two-seat advanced training and light combat L-159 aircraft: five L-159T1+ and three L-159T2 aircraft delivered in the spring of this year.

“We use the two-seat version of L-159 ALCA for advanced and combat training of young pilots. Eight  L-159 ALCA two-seaters allow us to fly a sufficient number of flight hours, provide quality and efficient training, and reduce the time required for training young pilots and their transition to operational squadrons,” said Colonel Petr Tománek, Commander of the 21^st Tactical Air Force Base Čáslav.

The L-159 aircraft must undergo regular maintenance check after 2,000 flight hours or each 8 years after the last periodical maintenance to ensure the highest reliability and safety of a long-term operation behind the horizon of 2030-2035. “In the Czech Air Force, two-seat L-159 aircraft became a highly used advanced training and light combat platform. Aero Vodochody guarantees stable support for L-159 aircraft on domestic and international domain,” said Jan Štechr, Aero Vodochody Vice President, Military Programs. L-159 aircraft are also used by the Iraqi Air Force and Draken International, a US company that provides training for US Air Force pilots.

The first of five L-159T1 aircraft after PP2000 work was delivered to the Czech Air Force in 2017, additional two were completed and handed over in 2018, and the last two overhauled aircraft this year. Aero currently performs also PP16 maintenance (after 16 years of operation) on single-seat L-159A light combat aircraft. Aero signed a contract for maintenance of 16 L-159A aircraft worth 1.6 billion crowns at the IDET exhibition in Brno in May this year. Recently, the fifth L-159A has arrived to Aero for maintenance.

L-159 aircraft mates Aero’s long-term experience in development and production of military jet aircraft, in the category of which Aero represents historically the largest producer in the world, with latest advances in avionics, engine and aircraft systems technology. The L-159 is a light multi-role combat aircraft designed for a variety of air-to-air, air-to-ground and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode radar for all-weather, day and night operations and can carry a wide range of NATO standards stores including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles and laser guided bombs. The two-seat L-159 is a derivate of the single-seat L-159, primarily designed for Advanced and Operational/Lead-In Fighter Training. The L-159 configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of basic training as well as combat missions including air-to-ground, patrol and reconnaissance missions.

Tereza Vrublova, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

On Monday 9th December 2019, the maiden flight of the L-39NG aircraft with MSN 7004 took place at Aero Vodochody. This aircraft will be the first pre-serial aircraft. Aero company pilots Vladimír Továrek and Vytautas Požela flew for 32 minutes.

Aircraft with MSN 7004 is a second flying L-39NG. “Today, we mark another important milestone of the L-39NG project. The 7004 has joined as planned the 7001 aircraft and the technology demonstrator aircraft (2626) in the flight programme now, so we can speed up the flight-testing according to our plan and get the advanced trainer certification in the third quarter of 2020. I am proud that Aero was able to produce and assemble three prototype aircraft and one pre-serial aircraft in less than 2 years.

“The 7004 is also the first pre-serial aircraft which has been built according to serial aircraft final specification and provides additional opportunities for target customers to testfly and experience the outstanding capabilities, performance and flight characteristics of that next generation training and light attack aircraft. Worthwhile mentioning, that the L-39NG is one of few trainer development programs in the world that will have three aircrafts flying at the same time for flight test and customer demos.” said Dieter John, President & CEO of Aero Vodochody AEROSPACE.

The flight was observed by several guests including representatives of Penta Investment Group, which is 100% shareholder of Aero Vodochody, and management of OMNIPOL company, a strategic partner to Aero Vodochody in the L-39NG project. “The timetable is in line with the established plan, which is essential for us. Today’s flight of aircraft 7004 is an important milestone not only for the whole project, but above all for our further dealings with our business partners and potential customers,” said Jiří Podpěra, President of OMNIPOL.

Four L-39NGs completed

Aero has until now produced four L-39NG aircraft. Three prototypes – one dedicated to flight tests, one to static tests and one for fatigue tests. The fatigue one has been finished just couple of days ago, the fuselage has already been transported to the VZLÚ (Czech Aerospace Research Centre), the wing should follow in couple of weeks and the testing will start in the beginning of 2020. Static prototype has been passing static testing programme since June 2019 and shall last until mid 2020.

Both flying aircraft, the prototype with MSN 7001 and the pre-serial 7004 aircraft are dedicated to intensive flight tests. Some of the tests are performed also on the technological demonstrator – aircraft with fuselage number 2626, which is former L-39C trainer equipped by new engine, avionics and other modern technologies used in L-39NG. Aero wants to complete certification for the advanced trainer, which will cover also the basic trainer, in the third quarter of 2020. The 7001 aircraft will then continue in certification for light attack aircraft that should be completed in the second half of 2021.

The L-39NG aircraft overview:

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective light jet capable to serve in a role of light attack and/or unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 with optimized features to reduce resistance and increase efficiency and utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is the Czech company OMNIPOL by having 50% of share and financial contribution in the project. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

All pictures HERE.

We are warmly inviting members and friends of the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry to XMAS Party 2019. Event starts on December 4 at 7PM in Hangar Bar – Dusni 9, Praha 1.

See you there!

The first customer flew in L-39NG aircraft. General Joseph Mamadou Diop, the Chief of the Air Force of the Republic of Senegal, made an hour-lasting flight with test pilot of Aero Vodochody Vladimír Továrek on Sunday 6th October.

General Joseph Mamadou Diop and Vladimír Továrek

The first prototype of L-39NG, new jet trainer and light attack aircraft, is currently undergoing intensive flight tests. Aircraft with the manufacturing number 7001 flies almost every day since the middle of September. The L-39NG project now marked an important milestone when the first representative of a customer tried flying the new aircraft.

“I am glad I had the opportunity to try the aircraft on my own. It was a great experience, Aero test pilot Vladimír showed me the great manoeuvrability of the aircraft and I also admired beautiful Czech landscape from the new full glass cockpit providing great view,” said General Joseph Mamadou Diop, the Chief of Air Force of the Republic of Senegal after the flight. Senegal is the first customer of the new aircraft. The West-African country will get four L-39NGs in Light Attack configuration.

L-39NG

“We are very confident about the L-39NG aircraft. The project runs according to our plan, we are finishing a second aircraft dedicated to flight tests in early November and we will complete the certification for Advanced and Basic Trainer configuration in the third quarter of 2020 and for Light Attack a year later. It was a logical step to offer our customers the opportunity to fly the aircraft and convince them of its unique performance and outstanding capabilities,” said Dieter John, President & CEO of Aero Vodochody.

This week, L-39NG flew to Sliač Air Base in Slovakia, where it is presented during the 4^th L-39 Users’ Group Conference. This event represents another milestone, because it is the first L-39NG flight abroad.

Vladimír Továrek, Dieter John (CEO of Aero),
General Joseph Mamadou Diop, Captaine Lassana Diop

Aero is currently finishing production of aircraft Nr. 7003 dedicated for fatigue tests and Nr. 7004, the pre-serial aircraft that should join 7001 in flight testing in following months. Nr. 7002 is already undergoing static tests since spring.

Source: Press release of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.

President and CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE introduced on Thursday June 27 company strategy for next five years.

The Paris Air Show 2019 begun on Monday June 17 in Le Bourget, France. Several Czech aviation companies are present there.

Czech companies at Paris Air Show 2019 (17. 6. 2019)

Embraer KC-390 at Paris Air Show 2019 (18. – 19. 6. 2019)

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. and Czech Ministry of Defence announced during the International Defence and Security Technologies Fair in Brno, Czech Republic contract for maintenance of 16 L-159 aircraft in four years. The total value of the so called PP16 contract – maintenance after 16 years of service – is CZK 1.6 billion.

The PP16 is a second regular maintenance check of single seat L-159s, the first check after eight years of service was performed by Aero in 2009–2013. The PP16 contract includes the renewal of the operating period for the next eight years. The maintenance work consist of inspection of all parts of the aircraft including all the equipment.

Besides the necessary maintenance, several upgrades are part of the contract. One of them is adjustment for use of NVG (night vision goggles): adaptation of the cockpit and installation of internal and external airplane lighting (positional, anti-collision and formation lights). Aero cooperates with the Czech army to make the whole L-159 fleet NVG compatible. All L-159T2 aircraft, which will come to the service of the Czech Air Force in following days, are prepared for training in night vision; adaptation for NVG is also part of upgrade of L-159T1 to T1+.

Another upgrade is installation of ESIS – Electronic Standby Instrument System, able to substitute several standby instruments and provide the pilot with attitude, airspeed, altitude, vertical speed and heading data in the event of a panel failure. Aero installed ESIS already to L-159T1 aircraft operated by the Czech Army.

„Aero is a long-term partner to the Czech Army. Together, we are working to ensure that the L-159 serving in the Czech Air Force meets the requirements for modern aircraft to perform military operations and advanced pilot training, and to allow the Czech military to meet its international obligations. Thanks to close cooperation with our most important customer, we can further improve and extend the capabilities of the L-159 aircraft,“ said President of Aero Vodochody Dieter John.

Filip Říha,Deputy Minister for Armaments and Acquisitions, added: “The L-159 contract for the maintenance and modernization confirms that domestic companies play important role in building and maintaining our military capabilities.”

L-159 in service of Czech Air Force

Czech Air Force is currently operating 16 single seat L-159 aircraft and 5 two seat L-159T1 trainers. In following days, Aero will also deliver to the Czech Army three L-159T2. The new T2 two seat aircraft have newly built central and forward fuselage, several significant improvements, mostly in equipment of both cockpits and in the fuel system, and are fully NVG compatible. Each cockpit is further equipped with two Multi Function Displays and upgraded version of an ejection seat VS-20. The aircraft is also adapted to offer a pressure refueling capability. The Grifo radar, commonly used in single seat version, is now integrated also into the two seat L-159T2 as well as the self protection systems (countermeasures and radar warning receiver).

L-159

L-159 aircraft mates Aero’s long-term experience in development and production of military jet aircraft, in the category of which Aero represents historically the largest producer in the world, with latest advances in avionics, engine and aircraft systems technology. The L-159 is a light multi-role combat aircraft designed for a variety of air-to-air, air-to-ground and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode radar for all-weather, day and night operations and can carry a wide range of NATO standards stores including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles and laser guided bombs. The two-seat L-159 is a derivate of the single-seat L-159, primarily designed for Advanced and Operational/Lead-In Fighter Training. The L-159 configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of basic training as well as combat missions including air-to-ground, patrol and reconnaissance missions.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development. 

Tobiáš Tvrdík, Aero Vodochody Aerospace a. s.

Dieter John – new president and CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE – is also new president of the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry.

Dieter John has previously held executive managerial positions in international aerospace companies such as Astrium, Eurocopter, Airbus Group and most recently Bombardier Transportation and Management Consulting.

In 2019 Aero Vodochody celebrates the 100th anniversary of its existence. Since 1919 Aero has developed dozens of military and civilian aircraft, and it has produced more than 11,000 of them in total. With these figures, it is the largest aircraft manufacturer in history of the Czech Republic. It has achieved significant successes with its jet trainers the L-29 Delfín and the L-39 Albatros and the combat-proven L-159 ALCA, a light combat aircraft. The new era of Aero opens with the L-39NG, which completed its first flight in December 2018.

Source: AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.

The first pre-serial L-39NG trainer and light attack aircraft with serial number 7001 made its first flight on 22^nd December, at Aero Vodochody Airport. The new generation of the Czech jet trainer was piloted by Aero’s test pilots David Jahoda and Vladimír Továrek. At 10:38am, the aircraft took off from the runway, climbed up to 5,000 ft. and after 26 minutes successfully landed at Aero Vodochody. The maturity of the platform allowed the execution of some development tests during the flight.

Two months after the introduction of the latest jet trainer at the rollout ceremony on October 12, the first L-39NG proved its readiness to flight and to start certification tests. The aircraft has flown in a configuration that is representative of serial aircraft including final upgraded wet wing and air inlets. This step forward consolidate even much further Aero goal to achieve type certification by the end of 2019.

“This pre-series first flight represents a significant milestone sending an important message to our customers: We can fully fulfil our commitments and we will be ready to deliver the first aircraft in the first quarter of 2020,” said Giuseppe Giordo, President & CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE. The program is running according to the plan showing its full maturity thanks to a great commitment of Aero, Czech institutions and partners of the project.

“As the strategic partner of the project we are very confident, that this important step will further strengthen trust of the whole aerospace community in the new aircraft and will help to make this great project very successful,” added Jiří Podpěra, President of OMNIPOL.

The L-39NG is a single-engine two-seater with staggered seating and an advanced cockpit design that includes full glass cockpit, a sophisticated on board virtual training system and a Helmet Mounted Display. The L-39NG is a key component of an innovative training concept developed by Aero that includes state-of-the-art ground-based training facilities, new learning methods and environment and extensive use of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence technologies. The L-39NG has been designed as a maintenance-friendly aircraft for many decades of reliable service.

Those capabilities enable the L-39NG to be the only available platform on the market capable of performing basic, advanced and LIFT/OCU training at the cost of a turboprop. „The L-39NG performed extremely well and fully met our expectations in terms of stability and controllability. We could even perform some tests like configuration changes, acceleration up to 200 knots, turns to 30, 45, and 60 degrees and slow down to approach speed. All installed systems worked perfectly and outlook outside the cockpit was excellent. The L-39NG is a completely new aircraft and I believe, it has great potential to become a perfect trainer for the 4^th and 5^th generation fighters as well as a light attack platform,” said David

The test pilots David Jahoda and Vladimir Tovarek

During the 2018, Aero announced agreements with the first customers. The first customer the Republic of Senegal was announced in April and was followed by Portuguese private company SkyTech and American private company RSW announced at Farnborough Air Show in July. Orders from those customers will secure the production of 38 aircraft. Currently, Aero is also finalizing agreement also with domestic customer LOM Praha, the Czech state military company and pilot training provider, and carrying out promising negotiations with other potential customers.

The L-39NG project is also supported by Czech state financial institutions Czech Export Bank and export insurance company EGAP.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective trainer designed as a unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

OMNIPOL

Since 1934, OMNIPOL, a.s. has been a reliable global systems integrator and supplier of military, security and aviation systems. In addition to aviation technology and aviation training systems, Omnipol’s primary focus is on defence and security electronics. Omnipol initiated a new phase of its development when it purchased ERA, a.s., creating the conditions for the rapid development of a new generation of unique passive (invisible) tracking and recognition systems called VERA-NG. The system is complemented by other types of passive systems (such as SDD) and thereby offers a comprehensive solution for the monitoring of air, sea and land space on the principle of “seeing without being seen”. Omnipol is also a supplier of technological production units and services for both the defence and food industries.

Tobiáš Tvrdík, Aero Vodochody PR manager

CCAI organizes competiton for students of Czech high schools. They have to build their own walkalong glider and complete 30 meters long track with one 180° turn. Watch two movies (in Czech language) how successfull students are.

On Friday 12^th October 2018, at 11:50, the first L-39NG pre-series aircraft rolled out from the hangar at AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, the leading Czech aerospace company. This significant milestone has been achieved in line with the L-39NG project schedule and Aero is now going to prepare the aircraft for its maiden flight planned before the end of this year.

The rollout event was attended, among others, by military officials from a number of nations, L-39NG customers, together with political and diplomatic delegations including the highest Czech political representative, the Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. “Aeronautics has always been strong tradition in the Czech Republic. The L-39NG project is demonstrating that industrial capabilities are still present in the Czech Republic. It is important that the Government supports this project, which will contribute to Czech export by high technological value. It strengthens competitiveness of Czech industry,” said Andrej Babiš, Czech Prime Minister.

Aero Vodochody is a company with historically the biggest production of light jets in Europe and one of the biggest in the World (total production of 6,700 jets). However, it has been more than 20 years since a brand new jet aircraft rolled out from the hangar. “When we bought Aero in 2006, the company was in a very bad shape, the development of our own aircraft was not realistic. We have set up a strategy where Aero has become a major subcontractor for Tier 1 aerospace companies. Nevertheless, at the same time we have kept the key people from the development team in order to maintain our know-how. Today, it is evident, that we have made a right decision,” said Marek Dospiva, partner of Penta Investments.

Since 2016, Aero has a strategic plan to reinforce its position as a leading producer of jet trainer and light attack aircraft. The next generation of the legendary L-39, the L-39NG, represents the key asset to achieve this target. “The L-39NG is defining the future of Czech aviation by taking the best from its tradition, bringing modern technology, and providing the best training and light attack solution available on the market. The L-39NG is already attracting a lot of international attention and customers and will definitely strengthen the customer community we already have,” said Giuseppe Giordo, President and CEO of Aero Vodochody.

The project of the new jet trainer is supported by the strategic partner, Czech military company Omnipol, “Today´s rollout is a major milestone for the L-39NG. Omnipol very proudly joined the L-39NG Project in the June of 2015 as the strategic partner and equal co-investor alongside our colleagues from Aero Vodochody.” said Jiří Podpěra, President of Omnipol.

The L-39NG is a jet trainer and light attack cost effective platform.  The L-39NG is a single-engine two-seater with staggered seating and an advanced cockpit design that includes full glass cockpit, a sophisticated on board virtual training system and a Helmet Mounted Display. The L-39NG is a key component of an innovative training concept developed by Aero that includes state-of-the-art ground-based training devices, new learning methods and environment and extensive use of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence technologies. The L-39NG has been designed as a maintenance-friendly aircraft in anticipation of many decades of service.

The development of the L-39NG has accelerated in the last two years in order to be able to deliver the first aircraft to the market in 2020. In 2017, the initial pre-serial production and the industrialization phase started including agreements with all key suppliers and partners of the project – both international and Czech companies (about 40 Czech suppliers). The certification of the new avionics and engine installation was already done on the end of 2017, while the certification of the L-39NG will be fully achieved before the end of 2019.

Aero Vodochody estimates the potential demand in the next 10–15 years for trainer aircraft will be up to 3,000 pieces. Current training fleets around the world are rapidly ending their lifetime and do not respond to the future needs of pilots training for the 4th and 5th generation fighters. In conservative scenario, Aero expects to deliver 150 aircraft in the next 10 years.

Before the L-39NG rollout, representatives of 18 states where air forces have experience in operating legendary L-39 jet trainers met on the 3^rd  L-39 Users’ Group Conference. Most of the attendees of the conference took this occasion to see the next generation of the aircraft based on the successful training platform on the rollout ceremony.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective trainer designed as a unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

OMNIPOL

Since 1934, OMNIPOL, a.s. has been a reliable global systems integrator and supplier of military, security and aviation systems. In addition to aviation technology and aviation training systems, Omnipol’s primary focus is on defence and security electronics. Omnipol initiated a new phase of its development when it purchased ERA, a.s., creating the conditions for the rapid development of a new generation of unique passive (invisible) tracking and recognition systems called VERA-NG. The system is complemented by other types of passive systems (such as SDD) and thereby offers a comprehensive solution for the monitoring of air, sea and land space on the principle of “seeing without being seen”. Omnipol is also a supplier of technological production units and services for both the defence and food industries.

Contact:

Tobiáš Tvrdík, PR manager

The assembly of the first L-39NG aircraft in Aero Vodochody continues in accordance to the production schedule. All sections of a fuselage have been integrated to form the final assembly structure called a cigar. This step means another important milestone of the assembly of the first L-39NG.

The airframe is now 70% complete and the new jet trainer with a fuselage number 7001 is heading to the roll-out planned for October this year. “By reaching this milestone, the L-39NG is getting its final shape, and very soon, we will be able to show the new jet trainer aircraft. The L-39NG is a new start for Aero Vodochody returning us back to the world class of proprietary aircraft manufacturers,” said Giuseppe Giordo, President & CEO of Aero Vodochody.

The whole fuselage consists of 3,365 parts. Only 10% of the fuselage parts are taken from its predecessor, the L-39 Albatros, 90% are brand new. After the final assembly of the fuselage, the L-39NG project is heading towards another significant milestone, integration of the fuselage and a wing, called a marry-up. This will happen in September together with incorporation of the key systems.

By making this promising progress in the assembly of the first L-39NG aircraft, Aero is sending a strong message to the market, not only about the product’s capabilities, but also about overall maturity of the project. This is attracting a lot of attention of potential customers. At Farnborough Air Show, Aero announced two agreements with two new international customers for the L-39NG and L-39CW – European provider of military aviation services SkyTech and American private company RSW Aviation for a total of 34 aircraft. In addition to the recently signed contract with Senegal, Aero has now a backlog of 38 aircraft to be produced in the next 4-5 years up to 2022.

The progress in assembly of the first new generation trainer is also welcomed by a strategic partner of L-39NG project, the Czech company Omnipol. „I am glad that Omnipol joined the L-39NG project as a strategic partner. Upcoming roll-out will be a closure of an important phase of the aircraft development, and at the same time, a big shift into the next one. From our point of view, this project invigorates Czech aviation industry and represents a great promise for the future,“ said the president of Omnipol, Jiri Podpera.

 L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective trainer designed as a unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centres with the goal to increase training efficiency. Strategic partner of the L-39NG project is Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.

The first L-159T2 for the Czech Air Force made its first flight on August 2, 2018, at Aero Vodochody Airport. Czech Air Force ordered three L-159T2 twin seat aircraft with several upgrades on board in 2016 to fulfil operational missions and advanced jet training. The L-159T2s are supposed to be delivered to the 21. Tactical Air Force Base in Čáslav till the end of this year.

L-159 T2
Photo: Martin Mamula

The successful first flight of L-159T2 with tail number 6028, piloted by Aero’s test pilots Vladimír Kvarda and David Jahoda, lasted 30 minutes. “Aero achieved another important milestone. Thanks to this cooperation with our national customer, the L-159 program got additional features. Based on requirements of the Czech Air Force, we will deliver additional twin seaters that are suitable for not only advanced pilot training but are also equipped for military operations,” said President & CEO of Aero Vodochody Giuseppe Giordo.

These new T2 twin seat aircraft have newly built central and forward fuselage, several significant improvements, mostly in equipment of both cockpits and in the fuel system, and are fully NVG compatible. Each cockpit is further equipped with two Multi Function Displays and upgraded version of an ejection seat VS-20. The aircraft is also adapted to offer a pressure refueling capability. The Grifo radar, commonly used in single seat version, is now integrated also into the dual seat L-159T2 as well as the self protection systems (countermeasures and radar warning receiver).

The L-159 aircraft  is operated by Czech Air Force, , Iraqi Air Force and US company Draken International. In the past, L-159s were leased by Hungarian Air Force to train pilots.

At Farnborough Air Show 2018, Aero Vodochody and its strategic partner, Israeli IAI, introduced a multirole aircraft for close air support F/A-259 Striker. The F/A-259 Striker combines the robustness and effectiveness of its successful predecessor – the L-159 Alca – with the latest advances in avionics and aircraft systems technology. Using benefits of a wet wing, F/A-259 Striker provides superior performance, great maneuverability, and a high range.

L-159

L-159 aircraft mates Aero’s long-term experience in development and production of military jet aircraft, in the category of which Aero represents historically the largest producer in the world, with latest advances in avionics, engine and aircraft systems technology. The L-159 is a light multi-role combat aircraft designed for a variety of air-to-air, air-to-ground and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode radar for all-weather, day and night operations and can carry a wide range of NATO standards stores including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles and laser guided bombs. The two-seat L-159 is a derivate of the single-seat L-159, primarily designed for Advanced and Operational/Lead-In Fighter Training. The L-159 configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of basic training as well as combat missions including air-to-ground, patrol and reconnaissance missions.

 AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.

Farnborough, United Kingdom – Aero, the biggest Czech aircraft manufacturer, and Israel Aerospace Industries, world leader in defense systems technologies, introduced cost-effective, combat proven fighter attack aircraft. The F/A-259 Striker is a multirole aircraft for close air support, counter-insurgency operations and border patrolling with interception capabilities.

The F/A-259 Striker combines the robustness and effectiveness of its successful predecessor, the L-159 Alca, with the latest advances in avionics and aircraft systems technology. Using benefits of a wet wing, F/A-259 Striker provides superior performance, great maneuverability, and a high range.

Giuseppe Giordo, the President and CEO of Aero, said: “Nowadays, national air forces are looking for a solution how to fulfill a great variety of missions in an affordable way, while keeping high survivability of the aircraft and its crew. Aero and IAI are introducing a multirole fighter F/A-259 Striker with a wide range of combat capabilities that meet those needs of Air Forces all around the world by bringing great performance with low acquisition, operation and maintenance cost.” Giuseppe Giordo added: “There are not so many aircraft on the market providing such capabilities, because it is a new requirement.”

Benjamin Cohen, General Manager of Israel Aerospace Industries’ Lahav Division, said: “Our cooperation with Aero Vodochody offers the USAF impressive proven performance of the F/A-259, with new innovative IAI systems, to provide customers with aircraft that meet their OA-X requirements.”

The F/A-259 is able to operate from unpaved runways and has seven hard points for any combination of fuel, weapons, or mission equipment, allowing smart weapons integration and standoff weapon capabilities. As an optional upgrade, the F/A-259 can be equipped by EASA radar and helmet mounted display. Another optional upgrade is air-to-air refueling, increasing the aircraft’s range and endurance.

Advance 4^th generation avionics for the F/A-259 Striker has an open architecture concept, allowing future updates based on customer’s requirements and use of Real Time Data Link, supporting a high situational awareness capability. The advanced digital cockpit is equipped by two large multifunctional displays, electronic flight instrument system, and other features.

 AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on design and manufacturing of both military and civil aircraft. It is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies in the world. With a vast fleet of the L-39s still in operation and a brand new L-39NG aircraft, Aero manages to maintain its strong position of a leader in the military light jet market. Additionally, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces in the area of military pilot training. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects and even several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for their development.

Israel Aerospace Industries

IAI is a world leader in both the defense and commercial markets, delivering state-of-the-art technologies and systems in all domains: air, space, land, sea, cyber, homeland security and ISR. Drawing on over 60 years of experience developing and supplying innovative, cutting-edge systems for customers around the world, IAI tailors optimized solutions that respond to the unique challenges facing each customer.  IAI employs its advanced and proven engineering, manufacturing and testing capabilities to develop, produce and support complete systems – from components, sensors and subsystems all the way to large-scale, fully-integrated systems of systems.

Tobiáš Tvrdík, PR manager

Watch record of press conference now:

Farnborough, United Kingdom – AERO Vodochody, a leading Czech aerospace company and one of the biggest light jets manufacturer in the world, and RSW Aviation, a one of the top military training providers in the United States covering training for military forces worldwide from ab initio to operationally qualified stage, signed today a Letter of Intent for delivery of 12 L-39NG Aircraft and also additionally upgrade of 6 legacy L-39 into the L-39CW variant allowing rapid introduction of the L-39CW/NG into service with RSW.

The combination of the modern L-39NG training aircraft and the innovative and customer needs´ oriented approach of RSW, brings to the market an unparalleled opportunity for the training of modern air forces. The
L-39NG/CW fleet will be made available by RSW for various customers in its US based training academy allowing training from ab initio stage up to the operational clearance level. The L-39NG is being certified using the European Military Airworthiness Requirements (EMARs) and thus brings a true compatibility and interoperability within EU and NATO operators avoiding any additional certification and cross-border processes. The L-39NG fleet LoI includes a set of state of the art simulators and debriefing devices for effective training and learning process.

The AERO-RSW cooperation is a key element of AERO’s global strategy for cooperation with other selected partners offering unprecedented availability of jet training to any Air Force in the world who want the latest platforms but are facing cost restraints. Aero and RSW furthermore agreed on implementation of unique RSW and its affiliate companies skills in terms of military systems integration into the L-39NG/CW fleet. For overseas customers RSW will be also authorized to perform an operational support of their L-39NG fleets.

Giuseppe Giordo, President & CEO of AERO, said: “Today represents a significant milestone for AERO, because through this LoI, we are developing a strategic partnership with RSW. Through this partnership, we will be delivering to RSW 12 L-39NG but also 6 L-39CW, increasing the production backlog of AERO up to 38 new aircraft.”  Giuseppe Giordo commented the cooperation with RSW Aviation as a new era of the jet training, as the RSW unique fleet composition including piston and turboprop aircraft with similar avionics concept allows to the operators to select an ideal mix of flight training with experienced USAF and USMC instructors for gaining maximum knowledge and expertise within reasonable budget. “We have identified a lot of synergies between the RSW customer oriented approach and the capabilities of L-39NG and are proud that RSW selected the L-39NG as a corner-stone of its lead-in training capability,” add Giuseppe Giordo.

David Patrick, Chief Operating Officer of RSW states that the L-39NG compliments the RSW Shorts Tucano very well, yielding a very compelling pilot training solution to their customers. “The addition of the L-39NG further solidifies our ability to prepare a fighter pilot for a 4^th+ generation fighter aircraft with exceptional value.”

 L-39CW/ L-39NG

The L-39CW Aircraft is a combination existing L-39C aircraft with a new FJ44-4M Williams International Engine and Genesys Aerosystems Avionics. The L-39CW provides an immediate solution for current operators by upgrading existing platforms until L-39NG Aircraft are delivered. The L-39NG aircraft is a brand new jet training aircraft with light-attack capabilities designed as a unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. A strategic partner in the L-39NG project is Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

RSW Aviation

RSW Aviation LLC provides world class CONUS and OCONUS, full service military pilot training and aircraft maintenance. With a fleet of L-39s, Shorts Tucano, Cessna 172, Bell 206 and King Air aircraft along with infrastructure and support in the United States, RSW provides unparalleled military pilot training at exceptional value. The key to RSW Aviation’s success is a deep focus on tailored solutions as it pertains to training and contracting.  RSW Aviation LLC offers both long term and short term (augmentation) training solutions specific for each customer.

OMNIPOL

OMNIPOL a.s. is a Czech investment and defence company and long-term partner of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE  with a long tradition since 1934, which  was accountable for exporting more than 2700 units of the L-39 aircraft worldwide (more than 600 L-39 aircrafts are still in operation).

OMNIPOL also invest in perspective domestic companies and defence programmes with high technical and export potential. The OMNIPOL Group currently includes among others the companies ERA a.s. and MESIT holding, a.s. as well as a bunch of their subsidiaries.

Tobiáš Tvrdík, PR manager

The Confederation of the Czech Aerospace Industry and its members are preparing for the world’s largest airshow of the year – Farnborough International Airshow 2018. FIA 2018 will be held at Farnborough Airport from 16th to 22nd July 2018. Visit CCAI stand at Hall 1 at the stand no. 1175.

The Confederation of the Czech AviationIndustry was the partner of Flying 4 Students 2018. There were speeking many interesting speekers during two days in Bethlehem Chapel in Prague. First was aerospace engineer Darren Ansell from University of Lancashire.

Editor: Matěj Mezera, camera: Zbyněk Smetana, Cumulus media s.r.o.

Presentation in PDF HERE.

NATO member Czech Republic’s largest aircraft manufacturer with an unparalleled history of supplying thousands of military light jets around the world, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s., and world leader in defence systems technologies, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., today announce their interest in participating in the United States Air Force OA-X light attack program.

AERO’s family of light jet aircraft, which include the L-159 and the L-39NG offer the USAF a range of capabilities unmatched by any other light jet manufacturer today. Both aircraft meet or exceed the USAF OA-X requirements for mission performance and system attributes. The L-159 is a proven robust platform, which has been successfully tested and operated in NATO joint operations, USAF Red Air exercises and real combat missions with coalition partners. The proven L-159 platform is enhanced with the integration of IAI’s innovative and cutting-edge open architecture technologies. The L-39NG, the next generation of L-39, offers the USAF a unique balance of experience, operational performance, and cost efficiency available in a light jet.

Giuseppe Giordo, Aero Vodochody President & CEO said: “Our family of aircraft offer the USAF a high and low choice of aircraft upon the Air Force’s cost benefit tradeoff. Together with IAI, Aero is ready to offer the USAF a multi-mission aircraft with the best available technology today, with potential for growth tomorrow. Our two non-developmental solutions offer the American Air Force a real choice of low risk, low cost solutions, in aircraft flying with coalition partners today.”

Benjamin Cohen from Israel Aerospace Industries’ Lahav Division said: “Our cooperation with Aero Vodochody offers the USAF impressive proven performance of the L-159, with new innovative IAI systems, to provide customers with aircraft that meet their OA-X requirements. Our virtual training system for the L-39NG is truly world class.”

Light jets from Aero are operated by air forces in strategic regions for the US. L-39s operate in East Pacific, Baltic countries, Middle Europe, some African countries and other regions around the globe. It makes AERO’s light jets very easy to operate in partnership with other forces and very easy to support abroad. Both aircraft, l-39NG and L-159, are available to meet the timeframe and production tempo stated by the USAF. AERO is also able to move production, final assembly, training and logistics to the US thus creating hundreds of American jobs. AERO and IAI are now active in finding American partner for the O-AX program.

AERO is traditional producer of military light jets. The company has produced over 6,000 jet aircraft with an accumulated 13,000,000 flight hours by more than 60 military operators. In addition, 15 aerobatic teams, such as the Breitling Jet Team, utilize L-39 aircraft, because of well-earned reputation of the aircraft for reliability, dependability, and cost effectiveness, both in the air and on the ground.

L-159

The L-159 aircraft brings together Aero’s long and proven experience in development and production of military jet aircraft, together with the latest advances in avionics, engine and aircraft systems technology. The L-159 is a light, multi-role combat jet designed for air-to-air, air-to-ground Forward Air Control (FAC) and ISR missions. The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode IAI (Elta) radar for all-weather, day and night operations, can be equipped with IAI’s real time, combat proven, Tactical Data Link supporting a high situational awareness capability.

The L-159 is equipped with combat proven, advanced avionics, offering also an important growth potential can be used the USAF – as well as an economic solution presenting an Improved survivability upon its competitors. The L-159 is equipped with seven hard points for any combination of fuel, weapons, or mission equipment. A two-seat derivate of the single-seat L-159, designed for advanced and operational /lead-in fighter training is also available. All L-159 missions are supported by advanced planning and debriefing station.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective military light jet designed to meet pilot training and light attack requirements of modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39 and incorporates the latest technologies and equipment. The aircraft is powered by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service, to ensure highly reliable performance and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s state of the art avionics is designed to support multi mission requirements and can be easily tailored to a customer’s specific requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for any combination of fuel, weapons or mission equipment. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including integration with high-tech tactical simulation centers to increase training efficiency. AERO and IAI collaborating on enhancing pilot training by integrating IAI’s virtual training solutions and helmet-mounted display as part of the overall L-39NG training system. The L-39NG project strategic partner is the Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacture of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies in the world. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position in the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with the brand-new L-39NG aircraft, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the military light jet market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero is a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for their development.

Israel Aerospace Industries

IAI is a world leader in both the defense and commercial markets, delivering state-of-the-art technologies and systems in all domains: air, space, land, sea, cyber, homeland security and ISR. Drawing on over 60 years of experience developing and supplying innovative, cutting-edge systems for customers around the world, IAI tailors optimized solutions that respond to the unique challenges facing each customer.  IAI employs its advanced and proven engineering, manufacturing and testing capabilities to develop, produce and support complete systems – from components, sensors and subsystems all the way to large-scale, fully-integrated systems of systems.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.
Photo by Katsuhiko Tokunaga

Vodochody, Czech republic, April 24, 2018 – The biggest Czech aircraft manufacturer with an unparalled background of supplying proven military light jets around the world, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s., and world leader in defense systems technologies, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., signed a partnership agreement relating to technical and marketing cooperation for the light combat L-159 aircraft.

The cooperation draws on the tradition and experience of Aero Vodochody in the field of military light jet aircraft, the L-159 proven robust platform which has been successfully operated and tested in NATO joint operations, Red Air exercises and real combat missions, and IAI’s innovative and cutting-edge technologies.

The partners have agreed to integrate new combat proven state-of-the-art avionics and other solutions, on the L-159 platform , and to jointly market the aircraft. This approach is focused on further strengthening the already proven L-159 and enhance its position in the light attack market.

Giuseppe Giordo, Aero Vodochody President & CEO said: “Together with IAI, Aero will be ready to offer aircraft with the best available technology. The agreement brings us together with a strong international partner with access to new potential customers.

Joseph Weiss, Israel Aerospace Industries President & CEO said: “The cooperation with Aero Vodochody opens up new and exciting oppertunities by combininng  the impressive proven performance of the L-159, with new innovative IAI systems, to provide customers with aircraft that meet their future requirements”.

AERO and IAI have agreed also to collaborate on enhancing pilot training by integrating IAI’s virtual training solutions as part of the overall L-39NG training system. The L-39NG is now the only platform on the market capable of meeting most of the pilot training syllabus including advanced portion. This will be of benefit to customers that decide to use only one platform for pilot training and also for customers that retain the two platforms approach, by reducing the number of advanced trainer aircraft resulting in significant cost reduction.

L-159

The L-159 aircraft brings together Aero’s long and proven experience in development and production of military jet aircraft, in which field Aero is historically the largest producer in the world, together with the latest advances in avionics, engine and aircraft systems technology. The L-159 is a light multi-role combat aircraft designed for a variety of air-to-air, air-to-ground and reconnaissance missions.

The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode IAI (Elta) radar for all-weather, day and night operations, can be equipped with IAI Real Time Tactical combat proven Data Link supporting a high capability of Situational Awareness presentation  and can carry a wide range of NATO standards stores including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles and laser guided bombs. The two-seat L-159 is a derivate of the single-seat L-159, primarily designed for Advanced and Operational/Lead-In Fighter Training. The L-159 configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of basic training as well as combat missions including air-to-ground, patrol and reconnaissance missions – all supported by advanced planning and debriefing station.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective trainer designed to meet the comprehensive pilot training requirements of modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. The aircraft is powered  by the modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service, to ensure highly reliable performance and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are designed to support the training of future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s specific requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including integration with high-tech tactical simulation centers to increase training efficiency. The L-39NG project strategic partner is the Czech company Omnipol. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero

 AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacture of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies in the world. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position in the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with the brand new L-39NG aircraft, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.  More recently, Aero is a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for their development.

Israel Aerospace Industries

IAI is a world leader in both the defense and commercial markets, delivering state-of-the-art technologies and systems in all domains: air, space, land, sea, cyber, homeland security and ISR. Drawing on over 60 years of experience developing and supplying innovative, cutting-edge systems for customers around the world, IAI tailors optimized solutions that respond to the unique challenges facing each customer.  IAI employs its advanced and proven engineering, manufacturing and testing capabilities to develop, produce and support complete systems – from components, sensors and subsystems all the way to large-scale, fully-integrated systems of systems.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.
Photo Katsuhiko Tokunaga

After 20 years, Aero Vodochody is selling new aircraft on the international market. The President of the Republic of Senegal Macky Sall during the national celebration of the Independence Day announced a purchase of four L-39NG aircraft, developed by the leading Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody.

The order of the Republic of Senegal contains four aircraft in light attack version, maintaining also the full training capability. The contract will also provide training of pilots, including conversion, instructor and combat training, maintenance personnel training, spare parts, ground support equipment and logistic support services.

During the past years, Aero focused more on aerostructures business delivering to main international aircraft manufacturers. “The L-39NG aircraft is the new future of Aero Vodochody, the company that has been producing proprietary aircraft since 1919. The L-39NG is based on successful aero dynamical concept of the current L-39, but is manufactured with the use of new technologies and contains modern systems,” said Giuseppe Giordo, the president of Aero Vodochody. “Currently we also have two additional contracts in a very mature state of negotiation,“ he added.

In January, Aero has started the L-39NG aircraft pre-series production line. Aero is currently producing a total of four L-39NGs. The first and the fourth aircraft will be used for flight tests, the second one for static tests and the third for fatigue tests. The first flight of the new pre-series L-39NG is planned to happen in the end of 2018. Aircraft deliveries are expected to start in early 2020.

Tobias Tvrdik, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a. s.

Leading Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody received type certificate for the L-39CW jet trainer, which represents the L-39 aircraft re-engining and modernization of avionics equipment. This step represents also important milestone in development of L-39NG, the new generation of the successful jet trainer.

Development of the L-39NG is divided in 2 phases to arrive to complete new aircraft composed by new airframe, new engine, new avionics, new cockpit (canopy, ejection seat etc.) and other new features. First step certifies the integration of the new engine and new avionics on an existing L-39 platform leading to intermediate configuration L-39CW. Second step, built upon the first one, will bring new airframe and other systems modifications.

This approach has enabled the anticipation of significant flight test activities, without waiting for the new airframe currently in the production process. The L-39CW will provide also an immediate solution for current operators by upgrading existing platforms with the new engine and new avionics (still 600 aircraft flying around the world). Another benefit of such an approach is Aero Vodochody to produce the new aircraft directly in a serial production configuration rather than prototype.

“Aero has now certification for both, the engine installation and the new avionics. Such an achievement give us important advantage in the schedule of the L-39NG project compared to our competitors and an already available solution for L-39 users. It is an important milestone in our path to roll-out and flying the new aircraft this year,” said the President of Aero Vodochody Giuseppe Giordo.

The type certificate was granted by the military aviation supervisory department of the Ministry of Defense, after the successful completion of the development of the L-39CW.

At the time when the L-39CW successfully completed the development and subsequent certification, the development of new generation aircraft with the designation L-39NG successfully continues. This is now in the stage of pre-serial production of the first four pieces.

The development of the L-39NG aircraft and its intermediate solution L-39CW attracts great attention of a number of countries that need to address the modernization of their training squadron.

The two step approach allows the existing users to build in advance the facilities for the operation of the new L-39NG aircraft and to train pilots based on the new system and new functionalities. In addition to that, Aero offers its customers to reuse later both the new FJ44-4M engine and the new avionics in the newly manufactured L-39NG aircraft, which will allow to strategically spreading out the investment in the purchase of the trainer over time.

About the L-39CW

For L-39 operators who want to increase the performance and availability of their aircraft, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE offers the possibility to re-engine existing airframes with the new FJ44-4M Williams International engine and to equip the aircraft with new avionics. Compare to original AI-25TL engine, the FJ44-4M has faster acceleration, lower weight, requires no APU and has lower fuel consumption. One of possible usage of L-39 CW is as an intermediate step before acquisition of brand new L-39NG with the same engine and avionics.

About the L-39NG

The L-39NG is a modern and efficient training type aircraft designed as a unified and complex tool for a truly comprehensive training of modern air forces. The aircraft is based on the aerodynamic concept of the original L-39s, but utilizes contemporary technology and equipment. It is powered by a highly modern FJ44-4M engine delivered with the TAP Blue maintenance system, providing its users with unprecedented readiness and predictability of the maintenance cost. The aircraft avionics are prepared for training of future pilots of the fourth and fifth generation aircraft and they can be adapted to a large extend to a customer requirements. The L-39NG is equipped with five hard points for carrying weaponry. A part of the aircraft is also a wide spectrum of simulation technologies, including integration to a highly modern tactical simulation center to increase training efficiency. A strategic partner of the L-39NG project is Omnipol that by 50% financially contributes to the development of the aircraft. More details about the new aircraft can be found on www.l-39ng.aero.

About AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on development and production of civilian and military aircraft. It is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers in the world. In the area of proprietary aircraft, Aero is a long-term partner of a number of Army Air Forces and it has a strong position in the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With hundreds of still-in-use L-39s, and in particular thanks to its new L-39NG aircraft, Aero profiles itself as a leader in the world’s jet trainer market.

In the field of civil aviation, Aero is a partner to the largest aerospace manufacturers in a wide range of projects. In recent years, it has taken responsibility not only for the production but also for the development of structural parts of aircraft thanks to several risk-sharing programs.

Tobias Tvrdik, Aero Vodochody

Lectures of aviation legends as well as the chance to meet the top players of the aerospace industry – all this will be possible during an international aerospace conference called Flying 4 Students which will take place in Prague, Czech Republic, in early March. The event aims to introduce the world of aerospace to young people and to enable them to start a career in the field.

The event will be held in the famous historical Bethlehem Chapel and will offer 10 lectures given by world-class aviation personalities. Visitors will be able to enjoy presentations made by Jacques Bothelin, the leader of the well-known Breitling Jet Team, or Justin Hughes, the former Executive Officer of the famous Red Arrows. Hundreds of students attending the event will also be addressed by the president of the American Lindbergh Foundation, John L. Petersen.

Another important part of the conference consists of workshops led by experts from renowned aerospace companies. Many of them will be looking for talent to bring back to their working teams. Czech Air Navigational Services and Eurocontrol are among those organizations which have already confirmed that they will organize their workshops.

Flying 4 Students will culminate with an exclusive gala where there will be opportunities to get acquainted with significant personalities of both the Czech and global aerospace industry in a more social setting.

The event is organized by the non-profit organization Aerolife which has already made a name for themselves through several interesting activities. „We carried out an air expedition across Western Europe which took us all the way to Morocco and back. We also had the opportunity to give a ride to Sir Nicholas Winton as a thank you for his heroic efforts instrumental in saving hundreds of Jewish children from Czechoslovakia on the brink of World War 2,“ says Martin Meloun, Aerolife’s Chairman of the Board.

In 2016, Aerolife also organized a successful event called Flying 4 People, which promoted aviation and at the same time served as a fair for aerospace companies. “Thanks to this event, we have gained a lot of useful contacts and we started dreaming about putting together something even bigger and truly revolutionary. Flying 4 Students is the result,” explains Mr, Meloun.

Event Details
Date: March 8th – 9th, 2018
Place: Bethlehem Chapel, Betlémské náměstí 255/4, Prague, Czech Republic

PRAGUE – December 27, 2017 – GE Aviation’s Advanced Turboprop engine, the first clean-sheet turboprop engine to hit the Business and General Aviation (BGA) market in more than 30 years, successfully completed its first engine test run at GE Aviation’s facility in Prague, Czech Republic, on Friday (December 22).

“Running the Advanced Turboprop engine this year was our biggest and most important goal,” said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of GE Aviation’s BGA and Integrated Systems organization. “This milestone comes as a result of two years of tremendous effort by a worldwide team. We’re developing a real catalyst for the BGA market and we’re executing on plan. The integration of proven technologies has expedited the design, development and certification cycle of the engine.”

The Advanced Turboprop engine will begin certification testing in 2018. The engine will power Textron Aviation’s new Cessna Denali, which is expected to fly in late 2018. By the time the Denali enters into service, the engine will have completed more than 2000 hours of testing.

Control room

“The continued testing will generate valuable data from the engine and validate the aerodynamics, mechanics, and aerothermal systems,” said Paul Corkery, general manager for GE Aviation Turboprops. “With the engine run and most of the individual component testing completed, early indications show that we will meet or exceed all the performance numbers we have quoted for the engine.”

The new 1,240 SHP-rated Advanced Turboprop engine is in the family of turboprop engines aimed at BGA aircraft in the 1,000-1,600 SHP range. With 79 new technologies introduced, the engine offers a portfolio of advanced technology, as well as unparalleled performance and efficiency.

The Advanced Turboprop engine features an industry-best 16:1 overall pressure ratio, enabling the engine to achieve as much as 20 percent lower fuel burn and 10 percent higher cruise power compared to competitor offerings in the same size class. At 4,000 hours, it offers 33 percent more time between overhaul than its leading competitor.

ATP engine in testing box

When installed on the Denali, these engine efficiencies allow for a larger cabin experience with a comfortable 6000-foot cabin altitude at a 30,000-foot cruising altitude, as well as class-leading, low cost of operation compared to smaller aircraft in the category.

The Advanced Turboprop engine’s proven technology developed from GE’s large commercial and regional engines has reduced engine development risk and timing. It is the first turboprop engine in its class to introduce two stages of variable stator vanes and cooled high-pressure turbine blades, proven technologies developed by GE in its large commercial engines and flown more than 1.3 billion flight hours. With the use of advanced 3-dimensional aerodynamics, improved materials, and cooled turbine technologies, the Advanced Turboprop engine will deliver significantly higher efficiency, as well as greater performance and durability than other engines in its class.

The Advanced Turboprop engine includes more printed components than any production engine in aviation history with 35 percent of the turboprop’s parts built via additive manufacturing. A total of 855 conventionally manufactured parts has been reduced to 12 additive parts, including sumps, bearing housings, frames, exhaust case, combustor liner, heat exchangers and stationary flow path components. Additive components reduce the ATP’s weight by 5 percent while contributing a 1 percent improvement in specific fuel consumption (SFC).

Celebration after first run

Since Mottier unveiled the Advanced Turboprop engine at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Convention in November of 2015, GE Aviation has committed more than $400 million in development costs for the engine. GE also finalized an agreement with the Czech government to build its new turboprop headquarters for development, test and engine-production in the Czech Republic. When complete and at full production rate, this new facility is expected to have 500 additional employees. GE Aviation Czech has already added around 180 jobs, with another 80 expected in 2018.

Source: GE Aviation press release
Pictures: Miroslav Oros, airZone.TV

We wish you a lot of success in 2018.

On Thursday 14 December, representatives of companies associated in the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry met in Prague KOGO restaurant for informal session. The meeting had a very relaxed pre-Christmas atmosphere even though the attendees found time to discuss latest news about European Defence Fund. Members gave positive feedback on the events CCAI organised during this year, especially the panel discussion on 3D printing in aviation and the round table of representatives of students, universities and industrial companies. Professional public also appraised latest activities of the Confederation in external communication.

In 2018, Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry plans to organise more panel discussions and round tables. The next discussion should take place in March or April. Topic of the meeting is not set yet so we will appreciate any relevant suggestions.

During the Christmas event, we managed to shoot couple of informal micro-interviews with managers from main Czech aerospace companies. And they will convince you that leaders of Czech aviation industry have a special sense of humour as well as many inspirational ideas.

More videos to come, follow our Facebook!

Representatives of students, universities and aviation companies met on Thursday 7 December at first CCAI Round Table. Main topic of event organised by the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry on premises of the Department of Aerospace Engineering of Czech Technical University in Prague was cooperation between industry and universities.

Guests of the discussion representing universities were Robert Theiner from the Department of Aerospace Engineering of CTU in Prague, Tomáš Vampola from Aerospace Research Centre also of CTU in Prague and Robert Popela from Institute of Aerospace Engineering of Brno University of Technology. From companies, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, GE Aviation Czech, LOM Praha, ATG, Ray Service and Řízení letového provozu (Air Navigation Services) sent speakers. Representative of the Czech Invest agency was also present to the discussion. Vojtěch Malý, one of CCAI coordinators, hosted the round table.

Discussion focused on several topics including terms of publishing diploma theses in relation to sensitive data contained in them, methodology of setting themes of diploma theses and seeking for a way to address students with offer to work in aviation.

As a result of the round table, the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry has to fulfil several tasks. First of all, CCAI must help to create methodology facilitating communication between companies and universities. CCAI will also help international students to get summer jobs in Czech aviation companies.

Can aviation manufacturers use 3D print in their production? What are pros and cons of this technology and what about its future? Those were main questions of a panel discussion organised by the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry on Wednesday 29^th November in the Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics and Cybernetics.

Representatives of both universities and industrial companies were present at the panel hosted by Alice Undusová, executive director of CCAI, and Michael Valášek, dean of Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the Czech Technical University in Prague. “3D print is one of areas where industrial companies and scientific institutions have very similar level of knowledge,” explained the dean. One of his colleagues from CTU, Mr. Beránek then summarised main advantages and disadvantages of the additive technology and Mr. Vrána from Brno University of Technology described how they test limits of 3D print of various materials. On both universities, students use their knowledge and experience with 3D print in projects of designing and building their own Formula cars.

Representing the industry, Mr. Kůs from Ray Service company described usage of additive technology in production of interconnection cables and engine harnesses for aviation industry. Mr. Vtípil from CARDAM – Center of Applied Research and Development for Additive Manufacturing shared his experience from projects running in cooperation with the Czech Academy of Science. One example of extended usage of 3D printing shared also Milan Šlapák from GE Aviation Czech. In development and manufacturing of new ATP engine, GE used additive technology to reduce time of the development, production cost and even the weight of the engine. “There are 21 3D printed parts on the engine, but they replace 855 parts that we would produce with conventional technology,” said Šlapák.

The presentations were followed by fruitful discussion with students. After the session, attendees had a chance to view objects presented by the speakers as examples of 3D print used in aviation.

If you understand Czech, watch the whole discussion:

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE is set to be able to start delivering the re-engining of the L-39 aircraft to customers from next year. The development stage of the L-39CW Project with the FJ44-4M Engine, made by Williams International, and with new avionics was successfully accomplished by flying and ground tests.

Among existing users of L-39s, there are currently about 40 countries. Almost 600 of those aircraft are still in operation. “Based on big existing fleet and our approach of supporting L-39s users and building business relationships with them, we developed a package, available for the customers to improve operating capabilities by new engine and also new avionics,” said Giuseppe Giordo, president of Aero Vodochody. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements to a great extent.

The L-39CW would provide also an intermediate step to the full brand new L39NG with the same FJ44-4M engine and same avionics, but with more features on top of new airframe. Such a solution introduces an opportunity to build up new facilities in advance for the operation of the new L-39NG aircraft and re-train pilots. Aero also offers its clients with later reuse of both the FJ44-4M engine and the new avionics in the newly manufactured L-39NG aircraft, allowing the clients to strategically distribute in time this considerable investment.

L-39CW during flight tests

The aircraft development culminated with ground and flight tests that were carried out with the purpose to measure the pressure field inside the fuselage at the engine air intake. These tests are required by Williams International and they are also part of the requirements on verification of capability of the engine installation. “The measurement results confirmed that the operating parameters declared by the manufacturer are guaranteed even when housed in the L-39C fuselage,” said Marco Venanzetti, the head of L-39NG program.

The L-39CW project entered the last stage of the certification program, meaning check flights under the supervision of the certification authority. Aero expects issuance of a type certificate for the new product by the end of 2017. In 2018, deliveries of the so much-anticipated L-39C reconstructions to the upgraded version of the L-39CW may start.  There are currently already underway promising negotiations with several customers on tens of re-engined aircraft and Aero plan to contact other.

L-39CW
For L-39 operators who want to increase the performance and availability of their aircraft, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE offers the possibility to re-engine existing airframes with the new FJ44-4M Williams International engine and to equip the aircraft with new avionics. Compare to original AI-25TL engine, the FJ44-4M has faster acceleration, lower weight, requires no APU and has lower fuel consumption. One of possible usage of L-39 CW is as an intermediate step before acquisition of brand new L-39NG with the same engine and avionics.

L-39NG

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern and effective trainer designed as a unified, comprehensive training system for modern air forces. The L-39NG is based on the aerodynamic concept of the current L-39, but utilizes the latest technologies and equipment. Power is provided by the highly modern FJ44-4M engine supplied with the TAP Blue engine support service to ensure unprecedented airworthiness and predictable maintenance costs. The aircraft’s avionics are prepared to train future pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft and can be tailored to the customer’s requirements to a great extent. The L-39NG is equipped with five mounting points for weapons. The aircraft also features a broad range of simulation technologies, including the integration into high-tech tactical simulation centers with the goal of increasing training efficiency. The strategic partner in the L-39NG project is company Omnipol that contributes 50% financially to the aircraft’s development. For more information, visit www.l-39ng.aero.

Williams FJ44-4M engine instalation

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design and manufacturing of military and civil aircraft and is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aerospace companies worldwide. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and it has a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a huge existing fleet of L-39 and with a brand new aircraft, L-39NG, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero partners with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects. More recently, Aero became a full partner in several risk-sharing programs, taking responsibility not only for the production of structures but also for development.

Source: AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, Tobias Tvrdik
Photo: Katsuhiko Tokunaga, Zbynek Smetana (airZone.TV)
Video: AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, airZone.TV

On Tuesday 17^th October 2017, another meeting of representatives of companies and institutions of the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry took place in Aero Vodochody company. Currently, there are 23 aviation companies, 4 universities and 2 other institution associated in the Confederation.

In addition to the regular agenda, the discussion focused on the topic of European Defence Fund, through which a large amount of money will be allocated in the near future, and part of it can be used in projects of Czech aviation companies and their partners.

As news from the companies associated in the Confederation, we can share information from GE Aviation where currently run test of compressor of a new engine that should be manufactured on a new factory plant in the Czech Republic. GE Aviation intents to announce exact location of this plant on the beginning of 2018. Aero Vodochody completed flight test of L-39NG technological demonstrator; the L-39 aircraft with new engine and avionics should be certified by the Civil Aviation Authority in the near future. LOM PRAHA is intensively working on restoring of the Czech helicopter fleet and it is considering expanding the repair capacities to Přerov, Moravia, where it would like to partly relocate also training of helicopter pilots. Its subsidiary LOM PRAHA TRADE a.s. successfully completed training of several dozen Afghan pilots of small helicopters and aircraft.

Other members of the Confederation have also many news. Flight school Flying Academy expands to the US and to India; Chinese investor entered Jihlavan Airplanes company; firearms factory Česká zbrojovka has allocated its automotive and aviation projects to its subsidiary ČZ-Auto; and ATG company is purchasing new technologies for NDT testing. Zodiac Galleys Europe continues to grow and is currently in the process of joining the Safran Group, which should be completed in the first months of next year. Znojemské strojírny company celebrates its 25th anniversary on the 1^st November; the machinery begins to intensively robotize some parts of the production. BEKO Engineering has opened a new branch in Pilsen and recruits new employees. The Czech Technical University in Prague and the Brno University of Technology are responding to the problem of shortage of qualified employees and they report growth of number of students in fields close to aviation.

The Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry intensifies also its own presentation. The closest event the Confederation prepares in cooperation with the Czech Technical University in Prague prepares, is meeting with students, the public and journalists during a panel discussion on the topic of 3D printing in the aerospace industry. This event will take place on 29^th November at 15:00 at the university in the recently opened CIIRC (Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics and Cybernetics) building.

We will inform you about mentioned news and events in detail in special articles and reportages.

On Thursday 27th of April, the CCAI’s Annual General Meeting along with a regular Members Meeting will take place

This year the Confederation has chosen the residence of Ray Service, a.s. in Staré Město in Moravia, near Uherské Hradiště, to host the event. Ray Service, a.s. is a company specialising in  complex solutions in cable harnesses and electromechanical assemblies.

Besides formal duties, members will focus on topics such as planned activities for 2017 or extending cooperation with technical universities.

São José dos Campos – SP, February 3, 2015 – Embraer today successfully performed the
first flight of the new military transport and aerial refueling jet, the KC-390. Test pilots
Mozart Louzada and Marcos Salgado de Oliveira Lima and flight test engineers Raphael
Lima and Roberto Becker flew the aircraft for 1 hour and 25 minutes, conducting an
evaluation of flying qualities and performance.
“This first flight is a fundamental step toward accomplishing the task with which we were
entrusted. The KC-390 is the result of a close cooperation with the Brazilian Air Force and
international partners, representing what is most likely the greatest technological challenge
that the Company has ever encountered in its history. We are profoundly moved for having
achieved this key milestone”, said Frederico Fleury Curado, President and CEO of Embraer.
“The program continues to move forward as planned and the KC-390 has drawn interest from
several countries around the world”, said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer
Defense & Security. “We are proud to once again keep our commitments in the development
of this aircraft, which will set a new standard in the category of tactical military transport.”
“The KC-390 will be the backbone of transport aviation for the Brazilian Air Force. From the
Amazon to Antarctica, the fleet of 28 aircraft will play a key role in the diversity of projects
of the Brazilian State, from scientific research to the maintenance of sovereignty”, said
Aeronautics Commander, Lieutenant-Brigadier General Nivaldo Luiz Rossato.
On its maiden flight, the KC-390 crew performed maneuvers to evaluate its flight
characteristics and conducted a variety of systems tests, having benefited from an advanced
campaign of simulations and extensive ground tests. “The KC-390 behaved in a docile and
predictable manner,” said Captain Louzada. “The advanced fly-by-wire flight control system
and the latest-generation avionics make flying easy and render a smooth and precise flight.”

About the KC-390

The KC-390 is a joint project of the Brazilian Air Force and Embraer to develop and produce
a tactical military transport and air-to-air refueling plane that represents a significant advance
in terms of technology and innovation for the Brazilian aeronautics industry. This is an
aircraft designed to set new standards in its class, at a lower operational cost and with
flexibility to perform a wide range of missions: transport and airdropping of cargo and troops,
aerial refueling, search and rescue, and forest fire response, among others.

On May 20, 2014, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force signed the serial production contract
for the delivery of 28 KC-390 aircraft and initial logistic support. Besides the order from the
Brazilian Air Force, there are current purchase intentions from other countries, for a total of
32 additional aircraft.

The Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. Company has introduced a new type of aircraft galleys for Airbus.

Production plants of Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. in Pilsen at Borská pole are currently producing 35 sets per month – composed of aircraft galleys and crew rests for Airbus that is approximately 5 more than in 2013. The number of employees has grown from May 2013 from 520 to 850 in Pilsen with the annual turnover increase to estimated 74 million Euros in 2014. In Pilsen production area is currently being developed new product – innovation of the kitchen module that will have significant positive economic impact for the turnover of the airlines. Suppliers of the components for Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. are to the large extent Czech manufacturers.

Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. specializes in aircraft galleys manufacturing and crew rests for the flight crew. They hold nearly a 90% market share of crew rests for the flight crew of Airbuses A330 and in 2013 became a soul supplier of new aircraft galleys for Airbuses A320, which lead to expansion of the factory grounds at Borská pole in Pilsen by a new manufacturing hall. The Pilsen plants have a monthly production of 35 Ship-sets (aircraft galleys and crew rests) that will be inserted on Airbus A320 planes. Last year it was 30 sets. “Thanks to the new manufacturing hall and new contracts the production has grown in a dynamic manner” states Joe Maxant, General Manager at Zodiac Galleys Europe. “Finished products are transported from Pilsen to Hamburg or Toulouse, where they are directly built into the aircraft.” he adds.

The expansion of production went hand in hand with the increase of employees.  The company is currently employing in Plzen, Czech Republic 850 employees which is 330 more employees than a year ago. The greatest increase was in the number of production workers, other non-manufacturing departments with increased numbers were Engineering, Warehouse and Quality” stated Joe Maxant, General Manager of Zodiac Galleys Europe. For the company Zodiac Galleys Europe works in total around 1000 employees (inclusive of the Netherlands and Tunisia plants). Assembly of sets require extremely specific skills from workers, this is due to input of thousands of tiny components and output of one product, entering the aircraft.

The company Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. extends also the portfolio of its products. Currently in cooperation with Airbus is developing new type of kitchen module. Its most important innovation is that allows an additional row of 6 seats for travellers. That means a major economic impact for the revenues of airliners.

Components for the products of the company Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. are supplied over 40 % by Czech suppliers. Kitchen modules and crew rests for pilots which come from Pilsen to the aircrafts are mainly composed from the components made in the Czech Republic. The ratio of the Czech suppliers the company Zodiac Galleys Europe ltd. wants to yet increase by 60%.

This year’s third meeting of CCAI took place in Charvát AXL in Semily on 29.5.2014. Two new members joined the CCAI at that meeting – Aviation Navigation Services of the Czech Republic and Flying Academy s.r.o. In the evening less formal part of the meeting took place – visit to Svijany brewery followed by thorough sampling of the local production. See more photos on our Facebook profile.

CCAI Press Announcement 14^th  May, 2014

Nineteen companies joined in Czech Confederation Aviation Industry provided its financial data to the CCAI in order to be able to compile confederation statistics for 2013 year and it resulted into a very positive image of the Czech Aviation industry!  All major indicators such as export, sales, profit and number of employees showed significant growth despite of not very favorable economic climate of year 2013. Combined revenues of members companies grew by  almost 29% and out of this pure aviation production grew by 51%! Export grew by almost 25%. However, the fastest growing indicator was operation profit and profit that grew by amazing 351% and 344% respectively which in absolute numbers means 1.8 respectively 1.5 billion CZK. After five times growth in 2015 it means that another more than threefold growth. Together with profit also total sales grew by almost 29% and reached up to 8.7 billion CZK. Number of employees of CCAI member companies increased by 11% to 4,861. Out of this total number 3,772 employees were directly participating in aviation production which means that this employment in this segment grew by 15% compared to 2012. From the above numbers it is apparent that productivity grew a lot as well. One of very positive results of CCAI’s work is the growth of mutual sales among the members that increased by 24.5%.

Confederation of Czech Aviation Industry joined 19 production companies engaged in aviation and aviation supplies and four universities and 2 other institutions. Among the most significant activities of the CCAI member companies are production and integration of aviation parts, development and construction of engines for civil aircraft, development, aircraft construction and repairs, avionics and flight systems, aircraft kitchenettes and interiors and production of machined parts.

BEKO Engineering, spol. s r.o. was founded in 1991 as a subsidiary of Austria´s largest company in the fields of industry using the computers science BEKO Engineering & Informatik AG, forming an important part of technologically oriented Holding company providing services BEKO HOLDING AG.

BEKO Engineering, spol. s r.o. is one of holding´s branch. It is focused on IT solutions with the engineering services. Since it was founded, the company has been a reliable business partner of IBM and Dassault Systemes. It is responsible for a delivery and support of PLM CATIA, ENOVIA and SmarTeam solution, including the related services providing engineering services.

ZLIN AIRCRAFT a.s. celebrates  80th anniversary of its existence this year and just announced signature of contract for delivery of another 15 light trainers Z-242L to Latin American customer. This is a follow-on of last year’s successful delivery of 5 aircraft.  Double-seaters Z 242 L certified also in the aerobatic category and equipped with digital avionics will be used by Mexican Navy for basic pilot training and all 15 aircraft will be delivered to the customer during 2014. This important contract will require increasing number of employees of Zlin Aircraft and therefore it will contribute to employment in the region.

Company maxmechanik s.r.o. based in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm recently joined Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry. This mechanical engineering company specializes in production of precisely milled, turned and drilled parts. Swiss owners and management team guarantee a partnership-based relationship with customers and suppliers.

maxmechanik s.r.o. offers to its customers precise treatment of metals (aluminum, steel and stainless steel, copper) and plastics and also assembly work. Over 90% of production and assembly capacities maxmechanik exports to DACH markets. Main customers are from branches as Aviation/astronautics, Air defence technology and Precision mechanics.

The integrated quality management system was certified by TÜV Süd (ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001) in December 2011. This makes maxmechanik one of the first mechanical suppliers in the Czech Republic to have a certified integrated quality management system.

Together with maxmechanik Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry now have 26 members from various regions of the Czech Republic.

The STARTECH spol.s r.o., which focuses on the production of rotary and non-rotary machined parts and components, was successfully certified according EN AS9100 rev. C (aviation and space production) and ISO 9001:2008. Both certificates were issued by Lloyd’s Register (LRQA) autority.

STARTECH has become one of the 40 Czech companies so far, which have its quality management system successfully certified in compliance with EN AS9100 certificate.

The Czech aircraft manufacturer ZLIN AIRCRAFT a.s. has signed a new contract with Escuela de Aviación Naval to deliver ZLIN Z 242 to Mexican Navy. The company said that the contract involved 5 new aircraft, which will be delivered this year and others, which are planned to deliver next year. The aircraft will be operated for training purposes of naval pilots.

The Mexican Navy has been ZLIN aircraft operator since 2001. More than seven ZLIN aircraft are still in service there. New orders from Mexico represent a significant increase in aircraft production at ZLIN AIRCRAFT’s facility this year. The company expects to acquire new orders from customers in other countries and as a result of this, new investments especially in assembly hall were made.

ZLIN 242L in acrobatic version is one of the ZLIN AIRCRAFT products currently offered on the
market. Additionally, new ZLIN 143 LSi FLIR with reconnaissance equipment was also launched this year. The aircraft has recently achieved 13 hours test flight.

The company based in Otrokovice is a traditional Czech aircraft manufacturer of acrobatic, training and multi-role aircraft, which employs 160 skilled people. ZLIN AIRCRAFT will celebrate 80 years of anniversary in 2014. Jan Antonin Bata founded the company in 1934.

Nextant Aerospace, a pioneer in the modernization of business and corporate aircraft, has selected GE’s improved H80 engine to power its first G90XT turboprop aircraft, built upon emanufacturing the King Air C90 aircraft. In addition to the G90XT, Nextant and GE signed a collaborative agreement to work on future product studies in which GE will be the preferred engine supplier.

The enhanced H80 engine for the G90XT will include an integrated electronic engine control system for single-lever power control, full auto-start capability and direct interface with the aircraft
avionics system to further ease pilot work load. The engine will also incorporate a new slower-turning propeller gearbox for reduced cabin and community noise. Other key features of the H80 engine are GE’s 3-D aerodynamic design techniques and advanced materials that create a powerful, fuel-efficient, durable engine with no recurrent fuel nozzle inspections and no hot section inspection. The engine has a service life of 3,600 flight-hours or 6,600 cycles between overhauls. The H80 engine family also offers a standard auto start and limiting unit to simplify engine start-up as well as a choice of propeller governors to allow customers flexibility in propeller selection.

Beyond business aviation, the G90XT aircraft will be available in special mission configurations. With more than 7,000 King Air aircraft produced, Nextant will have a large pool of airframes from which to choose.

Unison designs new H-Series Electronic Engine Control system

GE selected Unison Industries to design and manufacture the first-in-class integrated Electronic Engine Control (EEC) on the H-Series family (H80, H75 and H85) of turboprops engines. The design will be certified for use on all current and future H-Series family platforms.

The EEC, which will be optional on H-Series engines, will enable single-lever power control to enable the pilot to adjust both engine power and propeller speed for the throttle and flight conditions, while allowing for in-flight torque and temperature limiting to protect the
engine and aircraft. The system will also provide full auto-start capability, engine trend monitoring, and direct interface with aircraft avionics systems to further ease pilot workload.

Unison Industries, LLC, is a leader in the design, manufacture and integration of electrical and mechanical components and systems for aircraft engines and airframes. Unison serves both original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket customers in commercial, military and
general aviation markets.

The Ray Service Company has already become 25^th member of the Confederation of  the Czech Aviation Industry at the beginning of October 2013. CCAI has been growing both in terms of the aviation revenues and the number of members since 2012.

Ray Service together with its affiliated sister companies (EWAS, Ray Service ADE and
Raytech ADC) represent a wide range of capabilities and offer comprehensive solutions in electromechanical components, subassemblies, assemblies, wire harnesses and electronics business. The company established in 1994 is certified in compliance with EN9100, AQAP2120 and EASA Part 21 certifications. The company is focused on aerospace and defence sectors, which has currently 67% share in its business. Its customers in the production of cable harnesses involve such names as Thales AES France or Airbus Germany through AOA Avionics partner.

The company is going to open a new production hall equipped with the latest 5 axis machining centres this year and thus its profile as an indispensable partner  for complex aviation work packages will be reinforced. The company offers capabilities from engineering, investment casting, machining, electromechanical components production and electronics integration, up to final assembly and testing.

The Ray Service Company presented its contributions to CCAI at general meeting on September 26, 2013. Peter Gabriel, its owner, stressed that marketing and new business opportunities are the major driver for joining CCAI.

Česká letecká servisní a.s. has become a new member of the Confederation of the Czech Aviation industry (CCAI). The company activities involve avionics system solutions, integration and engineering services, production of wire harnesses, avionics line maintenance as well as installations and avionics sales. The company holds EASA PART 21 and PART 145 certificates as well as it`s quality assurance system is certified according to ISO 9001:2000 and AQAP 2110 standards. The company cooperates with major avionics manufacturers such as Rockwell Collins, Honeywell, Garmin and others.

The company was presented by Mr. Ján Scholtz, Managing Director, at the CCAI regular meeting in August. He emphasized that the company is interested in working with other CCAI members and contribute to joint marketing activities of this organization.

Following a long-term tradition in Czech aircraft deliveries to Russia and other republics of former Soviet Union, the Confederation of the Czech Aviation Industry (CCAI) and its members – AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, ATG Group, LOM PRAHA, GE Aviation Czech, Jihlavan and TL Elektronic presented their capabilities at MAKS Air Show, which was held from August 27 to September 1, 2013. The CCAI members have attracted much attention during the trade fair, especially in the area of maintenance and modifications of aircraft made in the Czech Republic, which are still operated in Russia in hundreds and which are popular. The companies also discussed the possibilities of being involved in upgrades of avionics and systems with Russian counterparts. And therefore, the maintenance and fleet management issues were one of the main topics of many meetings realized by CCAI members at MAKS air show.

The CCAI members also achieved a success in development of new engineering collaborations and partnerships in aircraft testing and diagnostics. The companies introduced a comprehensive solution to Russian partners in the form of activities which are necessary to maintain aircraft and systems capable to operate in the most demanding conditions. Contrary, the other possibilities to embed Russian enormous experience into the development of Czech aviation products were also discussed (such as integrated on-board instruments).

The Czech aviation companies built its credit in Russia because of high quality and reliability of their products. These products proved their functionalities in extreme operational conditions with very low numbers of service events. This is a reference point for all CCAI members and Czech aviation companies helping them to increase its contributions to Russian key aviation programs. The active approach of CCAI’s presentation at MAKS definitely left a very positive picture of the Czech aviation industry and increase our involvements in the international programs in the aviation industry.

The legendary test pilot, Marina Popovich, who holds 101 world and 126 Soviet Union‘s records conducted on various aircraft types, met with AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE at MAKS Air Show in Moscow. Marina Popovich achieved several speed and altitude records on L-29 “Dolphin” light training jet produced by AERO Vodochody in 1960s. She became one of the most experienced and well-known test pilots in former Soviet Union as she was flying more than 42 different aircraft types and helicopters and accumulated more than 5,600 test flights including those with Antonov An-22 or MiG-21 fighter jet. Marina Popovich received five highest international awards, for example the Grand Gold Medal of the FAI (Federation Aeronautique Internationale). On January 14th, 2007 the Russian Federation Government awarded her the honorary title “The Hero of the Nation”. She is still active as a professor and member of six academies in Russia.

The representatives of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE highly appreciate her contribution to the Czech aviation industry and gave her a small present as a memory for its records on L-29 aircraft.

Marina Popovich with representatives of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s.

The first flights of SKYLEADER 500 (produced by Jihlavan Airplanes s.r.o.)  in Russia proved high market value of the product. The Russian distributor Aviatexim Ltd.(www.aviatexim.ru) based at Novinki Airfield (www.abn.aero/airfield) situated near Moscow has tested the aircraft there in a view to start showing it to prospective buyers and to take decision on its use as a prime trainer at local pilots school.

The first flights of SKYLEADER in Novinki attracted attention of local aviation community – private pilots from neighbor airfields started flying in Novinki with the only purpose to try the new type. The flights were carried out by the pilots of Aviatexim, pilot-instructors and chief pilot of the school and all visitor pilots too. All remarks on the flight performance were highly complementary. We came to a decision that this aircraft can be surely employed as a prime trainer. The looks, design, interiors and craftsmanship were appreciated by all as excellent (wife of the school chief pilot said “I have never tried anything more charming”). Obviously SKYLEADER aircraft have very promising prospects at the market of Russia.

From left to right: Viktor Zabolotsky (pilot-cosmonaut, http://www.spacefacts.de/bios/cosmonauts/english/zabolotsky_viktor.htm, http://www.airspacemag.com/space-exploration/cit-harpole.html), Oleg Zagvozdin (dealer, CEO Aviatexim), Nikolay Ustinov (pilot) and Miroslav Boubela (Skyleader Aircraft)

The first test flight of new aircraft ZLIN Z143 LSi FLIR was successfully conducted on August 12, 2013 started at 8:45 p.m. CET at company’s factory airport in Otrokovice (LKOT). The aircraft was 13 hours and 13 minutes in the air (flying more than 2,500 kilometres in total with 30 litres of fuel per flight hour, which is a minimum consumption compared to helicopter as an example). This type of aircraft is produced by ZLÍN AIRCRAFT a.s., a member of CCAI, which continuous developing and manufacturing aircraft based on long and famous tradition of ZLIN aircraft brand and vision of its founder, aviator and entrepreneur Jan Antonin Bata.

The aircraft is equipped by infrared camera system and auxiliary fuel tank and it might be
invaluable aircraft for special mission purposes conducted by targeting customers such as rescue, patrol and security services providers and operators. The initial flight was handled by a legend of the Czech aviation, Jiří Kobrle, who is an experienced test pilot and ZLIN aircraft flying instructor awarded by the FAI Gold Air Medal in 2008.

For more details about aircraft technical parameters, please visit ZLÍN AIRCRAFT’s websites.

China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co., Ltd. (CAIGA) signed an agreement with GE Aviation to become the first Authorized Service Center for the H80 turboprop engine family  in China. With this agreement, CAIGA Customer Service Center can perform line maintenance inspections and routine engine maintenance, including removal and replacement of H75, H80, and H85 engines and engine components.

“CAIGA is honored to cooperate with GE Aviation and set up the first H80 family Authorized Service Center in China,” said Mr. Sha Chang’an, Vice President of CAIGA.  “The H80 turboprop engine family is gaining interest in China, and we will ensure operators receive outstanding service and support.”

“This agreement with CAIGA helps expand GE Aviation’s turboprop service and support network into China, which is a growing region for business and general aviation,” said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of Business & General Aviation at GE Aviation. “CAIGA’s expertise and commitment to customer service will ensure GE General Aviation turboprop operators in China have access to high quality service and support for their turboprop engine.”

Last year, CAIGA selected GE’s H85 turboprop engine to power CAIGA’s five-seat, light single-engine pressurized turboprop business aircraft with a carbon fiber composite airframe. It is one of the fastest pressurized single-engine turboprop aircraft in its class.

Additionally, Thrush Aircraft Company has delivered the first three of twenty new dual cockpit model Thrush 510G with GE’s H80 engines to China this week. It is the single largest order for the company with the included spare parts and training.

The forum took place on June 18 at the Czech stand at Paris Air Show and its key topic was innovation in the aviation industry, which was discussed from three different views presented by speakers. The panellists involved Larbi Ouchelouche, SPEEL Prague, which is an avionics and systems engineering company, Jim Stoker, GE Aviation Czech, a turboprop aero engines manufacturer and Gerrard McCluskey, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, an aerostructures and aircraft manufacturer. Ladislav Šimek as a CCAI president was a chairman of the panel.

All speakers provided three valuable contributions – Larbi in technical aspects, John in global market perspective and Gerrard in engineering trends, which resulted in joint conclusion –
necessity of partnership among local specialist, global player and strong integrator. The panellists provided evidence that the Czech Republic is an ideal place for engineering works as there is a considerable expertise in design, development and testing of numerous aircraft types, systems and aero engines, which has been passing and developing by generations of aviation professionals since
1920s.

The Innovation Forum was supported by Her Excellency Ms. Marie Chatardová, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, who opened this event and emphasized that the Czech aviation industry has its long tradition and continuity in aircraft design and development. Moreover, she stressed that the Czech aviation is capable to retain high level of efficiency and reliability and in any case, the Czech aviation companies do not miss any opportunity to embed the “Czech” innovations and additional values into the final products. The support came from the participation of Mr. Jiří Žák as well, who is a Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport and who delivered his speech at the beginning of the panel. He mentioned that he appreciates the aviation industry in the Czech Republic increases their turnover and he wished more successful contracts in engineering areas with partners worldwide. Among the most respected guests in the audience were the representatives of EADS Innovation Works, Airbus and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

New contacts and meetings at Le Bourget contribute to growing interest in cooperation with CCAI.

CCAI representatives have presented comprehensive capabilities offer and key joint projects to potential partners at Paris Air Show 2013, established important contacts and initiated possible
cooperation in certain areas. CCAI realized B2B meetings with nine aviation companies and fifteen aviation associations and partners during the exhibition, which was held in June 17-21. The results from the meetings contribute to launch new projects, further development of current programs in HR and supply chain performance and increase values for CCAI members and partners.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE gained the first place in the 11th Sodexo Best Employer of the Region Contest for the year 2013 in the category up to 5,000 employees.

AERO received an award for its pro-employee approach and human resources policy. It is the second achievement of the company in this area, in 2012 AERO obtained a second place in the prestigious Czech Patron Contest. „We are proud of the appreciation. Our company will continue creating new job positions, offering the opportunity to participate in unique international projects and investing in our employees in the future,“ said Tomáš Vlček, HR Director of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.

AERO has a high level of further education of employees and closely cooperates with high and technical schools and universities both in the region and the whole country. Collaboration of universities and companies is also one of the priorities of the Confederation
of the Czech Aviation Industry, founded by AERO and other Czech aerospace producers in 2011.

AERO continually creates new job positions both in existing and new production programs. In 2012, AERO hired more than 200 new qualified workers and technicians. In 2013, more than seventy new jobs are expected.

The Sodexo Best Employer of the Region Contest is organized by the Club of Employers under expert supervision of PricewaterhouseCoopers. The criteria for assessment include financial results, number of employees and newly created jobs, educational system or cooperation with schools and regional authority.

It’s been five years since GE Aviation acquired selected assets of Walter Engines a.s. and thus built on a hundred-year tradition of turboprop engine manufacturing in the Czech Republic.

GE Aviation has successfully developed a new H80 engine here (the first engine in the history of GE Aviation that has been designed and manufactured outside the United States, in the Czech Republic), which has a phenomenal success as a power of several types of aircraft worldwide.

To commemorate the fifth anniversary, GE Aviation has opened its doors to journalists from around the world representing world renowned aviation media such as Aviation Week, EIN,
Flight International, or BART International, and let them look into the production hall and into the bowels of the engine itself. The highlight of the day was the arrival of the L410 aircraft from Aircraft Industries, which is powered by new H80 engines.

The engine manufacturer based in Letnany currently employs around 410 employees
and has 650 engines in service worldwide, with the largest part of the production (44%)
going to Russia and countries of the former Eastern Bloc.

GE Aviation and AIR-TEC signed an agreement to develop an engine upgrade program for the L 410 aircraft. Under the program, AIR-TEC will replace the current M601 engine that powers the L 410 with GE’s new H75 engine.

“AIR-TEC is the largest M601 operator and has a deep understanding of the engine and aircraft,” said Jim Stoker, president and managing executive of GE Aviation Czech. “The engine upgrade to the new H75 engine will enhance the performance of the L 410 aircraft and bring many benefits to customers.”

“We see great opportunities with the H75-powered L 410 aircraft in our own fleet as well as aircraft operating in the African and Latin American regions, and we look forward to  developing this new engine upgrade program,” said Jan Rehousek, chief executive officer of AIR-TEC.

Customers can easily upgrade from a M601 engine to the H75 without any major modifications to the aircraft. The engine upgrade program will provide customers with increased temperature margin, improved fuel efficiency and extended time between overhaul.

The H75, which GE Aviation launched last year, is rated at 750 shaft horsepower (shp) for takeoff and maximum continuous operation and is aimed at the agricultural, commuter, utility and business turboprop aircraft segments. EASA certified the H75 engine last year with the FAA type certification anticipated this year.

AIR-TEC (www.air-tecm.com) is the largest L410 fleet operator in Africa. As well as being an aircraft operator, AIR-TEC also sells and leases L410/420 aircraft for regional airlines, aid agencies and NGOs, oil exploration companies and clients requiring smaller aircraft. Based in Port-Louis, Mauritius, AIR-TEC has branches in France, the Czech Republic and South Africa. The company’s goal is to provide its clients with first-class services to ensure their operational success, and its wide array of fleet diversifaction and custom-made leases allow AIR-TEC to provide its clients with a solution that works best.

Driessen Aerospace CZ s.r.o., incorporated into ZODIAC Aerospace Group, has been inaugurated its new production facility in Plzen on 14^th May 2013, which will be assembling galleys for new generation Airbus A320 aircraft. Thanks to new signed contracts, the company will increase its revenues by 8 million EUR this year. Today, the company’s number of staff is 520 employees and it produces 30 galleys per month. In the following two years, the total number of employees will be about 200 professionals higher and production per month is estimated on 35 galleys per month next year.

“We produce galleys, which passengers can see in the aircraft cabin during their flight and
rest areas for crews on long-haul aircraft Airbus A330 and A340, which are situated under the cockpit inside the cabin and dedicated for off-duty pilots for their rest on long-haul flights. The aviation production requires highly professional and skilled approach reflecting standard procedures, precision and top quality work, mainly manual assembly.” says Joe Maxant, General Manager ZODIAC Galleys EU.

CCAI members: GE Aviation Czech and LOM Prague have participated on 12th European Helicopter Show 2013 in Hradec Kralove, which was held on May 9-11. The exhibition was focused on producers of helicopters and their operators. GE Aviation Czech presented its H80 turboprop aero engine there, which drew visitors’ attention and interest. The number of visitors came to this event was higher during the weekend. Almost 20,000 people visited helishow on Saturday and 50 helicopters were displayed.

JIHLAVAN, a.s., one of the founders of CCAI, has signed significant contract with Spanish company CESA (Compañía Española de Sistemas Aeronáuticos S.A.) to deliver aero hydraulic parts and successfully closed negotiations which took almost two years.

JIHLAVAN will be manufacturing hydraulic linear actuators and valves for landing gears and cargo ramps for Airbus A350, Airbus A400M, CASA C295 and Eurofighter Typhoon. The total value of contract is 25-28 mil. EUR on 10 years period.

A new H80 engine with serial number 50 has officially left the gates of GE Aviation in Prague-Letnany. The engine heads to American Trush Co., a light agricultural aircrafts producer. Thrush´ s 510G agricultural aircraft is the first aircraft to enter service with the H80 engine.

The official ceremony of the 50th H80 engine export from Letnany was also attended by the representatives from Export Guarantee and Insurance Corporation (EGAP), CzechInvest and AmCham, as export of aircraft engines from GE Aviation CZ is a pilot project of a recently concluded reciprocal agreement on exports guarantees between EGAP and the American Export Import Bank (U.S. EXIM).

„The H80 engine entered service in 2012. It´s operating in the Unites States, Canada or Ecuador now and the feedback from our customers is very very good. In the following months we will have it delivered to China, Russia, South America and other countries“, comments the H80 engine´s success Jim Stoker, CEO, GE Aviation CZ.

Prague-Letnany based company is besides the United States the only place in the world where GE Aviation develops aircraft engines and H80 is the first turboprop engine in the history of GE Aviation that has been designed and manufactured outside the United States.

“The H80 engine is a template of what we would like to see with US / Czech relationships. It is a combination of knowledge, business know-how and value-added manufacturing investment that can be sold everywhere around the world”, says Weston Stacey, Executive Director, AmCham.

The activities in the Czech Republic include sales, service, manufacturing and development of new engines. The company plans to manufacture hundreds of new engines a year, to expand the production and to invest into new models.

CZ Uhersky Brod, a member of CCAI, will be presented at Hannover International Trade Fair which will be held on April 8-12, 2013. Visit their stand F44, hall 5. CZ Uhersky Brod produces gearboxes for aero engines and machining parts among their other products.

AERO Vodochody has signed a new contract for delivery of Airbus A321 fuselage panels to Italian aerospace producer, Alenia Aermacchi. The Italian customer will use four 4.3 meters long panels made by Aero to build a 14a fuselage section of A321. AERO Vodochody should produce up to 96 panel sets a year. The contract value is over 3 billion CZK.

AERO takes this new project as a big opportunity. A321 is the biggest aircraft of Airbus A320 family, the fastest selling airliners in history. A321 entered service in 1994 and can accommodate up to 220 passengers. The 14a fuselage section is 4.14 metres high and 3.95 metres wide and is located just in front of wings of the aircraft.

This contract is not the first cooperation of AERO and Alenia Company. Since 2007, Aero produces centre wing box for Alenia C-27J Spartan. Following this successful cooperation, Alenia Aermacchi offered to AERO to take part in its A321 program. Production of fuselage panels should start before the end of 2013 and there is no time limit of the contract. That means that Aero should participate on all current and all future versions of A321 up to the end of production of this aircraft.

The new program will require some investments in new technologies. AERO becomes the first Czech company using fully automatic riveting of aerospace structures. AERO will also offer about 150 new jobs for engineers and workers.

Alenia Aermacchi is part of Finmeccanica group. Its production includes C-27J Spartan transport aircraft, used by national air forces of Italy, United States, Lithuania, Greece, Mexico and other countries. The Army of Czech Republic also considered buying this aircraft. Except of its own projects, the company participates also on many international projects of the biggest aircraft producers like Boeing, Airbus or Sukhoi. Alenia Aermacchi is the only producer of A321 14a fuselage section and AERO is one of her two suppliers of fuselage panels.