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Aero will present the first L-39NG aircraft to LOM PRAHA during this year's NATO Days

This June, Aero showcased the L-39NG aircraft in flight to mark one year since the start of its serial production. The first L-39NG, intended for the Pardubice Aviation Training Centre of LOM PRAHA, will be used to train future Czech F-35 pilots. The first aircraft will be officially presented to LOM PRAHA during this year’s NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days.

In total, Aero will supply LOM PRAHA with four L-39NG training aircraft, with an option to expand the order by an additional four units. The delivery includes not only the aircraft but also pilot training, which has already started with theoretical lessons at Aero’s training facilities.

"I am pleased that we were able to demonstrate the L-39NG aircraft in flight to LOM PRAHA, and I look forward to its ceremonial presentation during NATO Days, which will be followed by the official hand over. We will deliver the second aircraft by the end of this year, with the remaining two ready for delivery by mid-next year. Pilot training is the primary role of the L-39NG, and our long-term goal is to offer a comprehensive system for all phases of training for 4th and 5th generation aircraft pilots at an affordable price. To achieve this, in addition to a high-performance aircraft, a full ground training system integrated with a virtual onboard training system is required, which will significantly enhance the training experience. LOM PRAHA has the option to purchase additional four aircraft, which would ensure sufficient capacity to train not only Czech Air Force pilots but also for the NATO Flight Training Europe programme," said Viktor Sotona, President of Aero Vodochody.

The Pardubice Aviation Training Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and will use the L-39NG aircraft to train Czech Army pilots. The centre is also investing in new training equipment, including an L-39NG flight simulator. Jiří Protiva, Director of LOM PRAHA, stated that their goal is to prepare pilots for transitioning to F-35 aircraft training.

Aero pilots first demonstrated the flight capabilities of the L-39NG on June 12 in Vodochody. The L-39NG boasts a robust design, composite materials, and a high level of pilot protection. It is designed to have low operational costs and long range. In August, theoretical training for the CLV Pardubice pilots began at Aero, followed by practical pilot training and ground personnel instruction. The contract for the delivery of the aircraft to LOM PRAHA was signed in November 2022, and serial production began in May 2023.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of both civilian and military aircraft. It is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest in the world. In the field of its own aircraft, Aero is a long-term partner of many military air forces and holds a strong position in the market for military training and light attack aircraft. With over 11,000 aircraft produced in its hundred-year history, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in use by dozens of military operators and demonstration teams, and especially with its new L-39NG aircraft, Aero is establishing itself as a leader in the global market for jet training aircraft. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with the largest aircraft manufacturers on a wide range of projects and is a partner in several risk-sharing programs, where it is responsible not only for the production and assembly of aircraft components but also for their development.

See you at
NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days 2024!