Latin America Special Report

 

© Chilean Air Force Chile's F-16 fleet, which includes a mix of C/Ds and older A/Bs, will once again be prominently displayed at FIDAE when the sixteenth edition of the air show kicks off on 23 March

As Santiago gets ready to host Latin America's largest air show next week, what changes are in store for Chile's military aircraft priorities in the aftermath of the 27 February earthquake? We examine the nation's aerospace capabilities and those of neighbouring Argentina, which is making a new push following the renationalisation of the country's only aircraft factory. We also look at the expansion of Peru's largest helicopter operator and provide a brief snapshot of what to expect at FIDAE 2010 after the show's organisers and the Chilean government decided to go ahead with the event despite the destruction caused by the natural disaster.

Contents

• Chile- Will the earthquake and the 11 administration change lead to new aerospace and defence priorities in Chile

Argentina - One of Latin America's original aircraft manufacturers has been relaunched with big expectations for the military and civil sectors

Peru - UTair is seeking to cash in on growing demand for civil helicopters in Latin America after acquisition gives it foothold