Czech Aviation Enters a New Era: LOM PRAHA Updates Training Fleet with New L-39 Skyfox Aircraft from Aero Vodochody

Pardubice, February 10, 2025 – The Czech aviation industry celebrates another significant milestone. Aero Vodochody has officially handed over the first two Aero L-39 Skyfox jet trainers to the Flight Training Center of the state enterprise LOM PRAHA. This historic moment marks an essential step in preparing Czech pilots for training on the most advanced F-35 fighter jets.

The Aero L-39 Skyfox sets a new standard in pilot training, not only for the Czech Air Force but also for NATO Flight Training Europe programs. “The handover of the first two aircraft is a milestone for Aero and LOM PRAHA and the entire Czech aviation industry. We are pleased that a new training platform meeting the requirements of modern air forces is now available to Czech Air Force pilots. It enables efficient training of new pilots and prepares them for fifth-generation aircraft. We greatly appreciate the positive feedback from CLV Pardubice instructor pilots, who have highlighted the aircraft’s excellent flight characteristics. We value their evaluation and look forward to delivering the remaining aircraft, which will be ready for handover in the third quarter of this year. The contract also allows LOM PRAHA to exercise an option to purchase an additional four aircraft,” said Viktor Sotona, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Aero.

The Flight Training Center in Pardubice, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last April, will use the Czech L-39 Skyfox trainers for basic and advanced training of Czech Air Force pilots. In preparation for the transition to the new Aero L-39 Skyfox, LOM PRAHA has invested in infrastructure and technological modernization. Key investments include a certified Aero L-39 Skyfox flight simulator (Full Mission Simulator) developed by LOM PRAHA’s subsidiary VR Group. This simulator will be part of a comprehensive training platform, significantly accelerating pilot preparation. Pilot training at the Flight Training Center will commence in April 2025.

“Our goal is to provide Czech Air Force pilots with expert training to facilitate their transition to fifth-generation aircraft. By integrating the new aircraft into CLV Pardubice’s training programs, we are fulfilling our vision to enhance military aviation training for the Czech Army. This transition represents a crucial step in the overall renewal of the training fleet after 20 years of CLV operations. I am very pleased that by acquiring the Skyfox aircraft, we are also supporting the Czech aviation industry,” stated Jiří Protiva, Director of LOM PRAHA.

The Aero L-39 Skyfox is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including composite materials and integrated fuel tanks, contributing to lower operating costs and an excellent range. Its modern avionics ensure maximum safety under adverse weather conditions, while the cockpit features a heads-up display, a Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) system, and multifunctional displays with realistic 3D terrain visualization, offering intuitive operation and comfort during extended flights. The L-39 Skyfox’s key advantage lies in its integration with a virtual training system, enabling the simulation of complex combat scenarios directly in the cockpit.

LOM PRAHA instructor pilots gained their first hands-on experience with the Aero L-39 Skyfox in October of last year. “The L-39 Skyfox is an excellent aircraft for training young pilots. Compared to the previous generation, it responds quickly to control inputs, has outstanding acceleration and deceleration, and is easy to handle even at altitudes above four kilometers. Thanks to its new avionics, flying in challenging weather or low-visibility conditions is much more comfortable. The modern cockpit provides greater comfort and intuitive controls,” summarized Tomáš Merta, an instructor pilot at the Flight Training Center.

On November 14, 2022, a contract was signed for the delivery of four Aero L-39 Skyfox aircraft to LOM PRAHA’s Flight Training Center. Series production of the jet trainer began at Aero on May 10, 2023. In June 2024, Aero conducted the maiden flight of the first L-39 Skyfox designated for LOM PRAHA. Currently, Aero L-39 Skyfox involves approximately 600 subcontractors, 400 of whom are from the Czech Republic.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. specializes in the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of civil and military aircraft. It is the largest aerospace manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the world’s oldest aircraft producers. Aero is a long-standing partner of numerous air forces and has a strong presence in the market for military training and light combat aircraft. With 11,000 aircraft manufactured over its 100-year history and hundreds of operational L-39 Albatros aircraft used by dozens of military operators and aerobatic teams worldwide, Aero is cementing its leadership position with the new L-39 Skyfox jet trainer. In civil aviation, Aero collaborates with major manufacturers on a wide range of projects and participates in several risk-sharing programs, where it is responsible not only for manufacturing and assembly but also for the development of aerostructures.

LOM PRAHA s.p. is a traditional enterprise in the Czech aviation industry, serving as a leading maintenance facility for Mi-series helicopters within NATO and EU countries. It offers a full cycle of maintenance services, backed by certifications from relevant aviation authorities. Unlike many competitors, LOM PRAHA provides comprehensive services, including complete lifecycle support for Mi helicopters. Its undeniable advantage lies in its experienced technical personnel, use of advanced technologies, and commitment to high quality. In recent years, LOM PRAHA has undergone dynamic development, particularly through industrial collaborations on strategic Czech Army projects, including the H-1 helicopter platform, procurement of F-35 fighter aircraft, and Embraer C-390 transport planes.

Contact:
Radka Černá, PR & Communications Manager
Email: radka.cerna@aero
Phone: +420 608 974 258
Website: www.aero.cz

Facebook: @aerovodochody
X: @AERO_Vodochody
LinkedIn: @aero-vodochody-aerospace-a.s.