Aero L159 ALCA to make Mid East debut at Dubai 2001

A world leading producer of jet training aircraft, the L159 is Aero's latest offering to the competitive global trainer/light attack aircraft. It will take part daily in the internationally acclaimed Dubai air show flying display in the skies over Airport Expo. Dubai, from November 4-8.

"The Aero L 159 ALCA is the one of the most advanced aircraft in its category. We are sure that its sleek profile and slick performance will make it a popular fixture in the daily flying displays," said Pavla Kolinova, New Business Acquisition, Aero Vodochody S.A.

"The Middle East market is historically one the most important for Aero´s products with many customers in the region operating our aircraft. The Dubai air show offers the best opportunity to demonstrate our latest offerings including the L159, which is making its Middle East debut and as such is certain to generate a lot of interest."

The Aero L159 was designed to meet the operational requirements of the Czech Air Force, a priority being to fulfil the role of an advanced lead-in fighter and sub-sonic attack jet trainer. The first prototype was rolled out in June 1997 with the delivery of the first aircraft, taking place in April 2000.

Incorporating a high performance turbofan engine, advanced avionics and sensors and able to carry a range of NATO standard weapons, the L159 project drew upon the expertise of such aerospace companies as Boeing and Honeywell.

Powered by a powerful Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-100 turbofan engine with 6,300 lbs of thrust propelling the aircraft to a maximum speed of 936 km/h at sea level (505 KTAS). The L159 has a rate of climb of 62 m/s (12,210 ft/min), a surface ceiling of 13,200 m and a maximum range of 2,530 km.

Aero Vodochody claims the multi-role aircraft is able to fulfil a variety of roles including air support, tactical reconnaissance, air defence, anti-ship missions as well as servicing an air force's requirement for a lead-in fighter and weapons trainer.

"The L159 makes use of all modern advancements designed to reduce pilot workload, including an advanced Head-Up Display (HUD) incorporating a comprehensive avionics and data management system to meet multi-mission requirements. As well as a hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) configuration, which allows pilots to control the aircraft without removing their hands from the throttle or control column, and a cutting-edge countermeasures package," said Kolinova

Past offerings of Aero Vodochody have been incorporated into the air forces of such countries in the region as Egypt and Tunisia.

"The Dubai air show has established a reputation over the years as somewhere business can be done. If you wish to sell aerospace technology to this region, then there is no other single marketing platform for reaching potential customers from this area, nor such regional focus from exhibitors. That is why such aerospace companies cannot afford to miss this event," said Clive Richardson, CEO, Fairs and Exhibitions, organisers of the Dubai 2001.