The L-159 introduction not plain sailing for Aero, but some other projects showing some encouraging signs

Published: 6/28/1999

Aero Vodochody is scheduling initial delivery in mid November of five L-159 light attack aircraft to the Czech Air Force. All the airframes are currently in final assembly stage at Aero's Odolena Voda facility. Two prototypes have accumulated 200 hours of tests to meet certification before November with life firing tests recently taking place in Norway. According to sources in Czech Republic however, the project has some problems. Unspecified problems are reported to have occurred during the live firing test in Norway and engine testing is also reported to be behind schedule. The company has declined to comment on the reports. The Czech Air Force however, is reported to have started to review the possibility of upgrading its Su-22s in the event of the L-159 program not being successful. According to comments there is unspecified dissatisfaction with some elements of the aircraft among Czech Air Force technical staff. A further unconfirmed report relates comments from a foreign pilot allowed to fly the L-159 who reported that the aircraft was under powered. Aero Vodochdy is currently trying to attract foreign customers to ensure that the production of the aircraft is continued after year 2002 when the last Czech ALCA is delivered. The company is also developing its marketing efforts to upgrade l-59s and L-139s. Installation of modern avionics has been reviewed and one of projects called the L-139-2000 will have elements of the avionics suite used on the L-159 to expand its training capabilities and provide a light sub sonic fighter option for customers. With the future of the L-159 remaining uncertain and sales of other models falling. Aero is reported to be reviewing its future. One of the possible options is to take part in a new European project to create a joint training aircraft. There have already been talks between the Czechs and European producers and Aero has expressed its interest in potentially joining the new venture. The company is also continuing the development of the Ibis, a general aviation single turboprop first announced in 1990.A 10 seat utility transport, the Ae-270 Ibis is scheduled to make its maiden flight in mid November 1999. According to Aero there are some 200 potential customers and dealers who have been contacted, but as yet the company has not embarked on its marketing campaign. After the flight, Aero will begin to market in earnest to what is seen as a fast growing segment of single engine sub regional passenger aircraft. Currently the first set of wings is under final assembly in Taiwan and Aero, which is manufacturing the fuselage, will take responsibility for final assembly. The tailplane is being produced by the private Czech manufacturer Evector. The certification is targeted for completion by 2001 with deliveries following closely after that date.

Article ID: 635