Let sees US sales of the L-420 and Ayres commitment to build new aircraft at Kunowice plant

Published: 6/25/1999

US aircraft manufacturer Ayres, owner of Czech regional aircraft manufacturer, based in Kunowice, has reported increasing success with the marketing of the twin–turboprop L-420 light transport and L-601 regional transport. The L-420, the FAR pt 23 certificate derivative of the widely known L-410 VP-E, has received its first US order for 15 aircraft in 19-seat configuration, from Pan Pacific Airways, which operates out of Seattle"s Tacoma International Airport. Pan Pacific have also expressed their intention to purchase two 40 seat L-610Gs when they complete certification and become available later next year. Production of L-410/L420s is carried out at Kunowice with annual sales of between 15 and 20 aircraft according to the company . The second hand/refurbishment market however, remains buoyant in the Czech Republic, but the sales of refurbished aircraft to the CIS have declined since due to the financial problems of Russia.The aircraft operates throughout the CIS, with over 514 of the original L-410 variants built. Let will also benefit from Ayres"s plans to jointly produce their twin turboprop Loadmaster utility transport aircraft in the Czech Republic and their new plant in Alabama. The Let plant is scheduled to begin delivering aircraft in March of 2001, after the Loadmaster receives European certification following US certification later this year, according to Ayres. The aircraft will incorporate a number of Let assemblies says Ayres, including the vertical stabiliser from the L-410 and the horizontal stabiliser from the L-610. Let will also be responsible for the production of wings and empennages. Currently the aircraft is reported to have firm orders for 50 Loadmasters from FedEx for use in the US and options on a further 175.

Article ID: 628