Chilean aircraft manufacturer Enaer hopes to put its Pillan trainer back in production following the sale of used aircraft to El Salvador and Guatemala. Enaer is co-operating with two Russian companies on development of an improved aircraft, the Pillan 2000.
The recent sales involve T-35 Pillans previously operated by the Chilean air force, but any new production aircraft would be Pillan 2000s, says Enaer. The upgraded aircraft features a new increased-span wing designed by Technoavia and Tyazhpromexport in Moscow. A prototype is expected to fly in Russia within two months.
The original Pillan was based on the wing of a Piper light aircraft. The new wing reduces weight and improves performance, Enaer says. The tandem-seat fuselage and piston engine remain unchanged. As with the original Pillan, a turboprop-powered version is available.
State owned Enaer is also involved in several other programmes. It is backing an effort by Snow Aviation in the USA to re-engine the Cessna T-37 jet trainer with Williams-Rolls FJ44-1 turbofans, and has provided two ex-Chilean air force aircraft to act as prototypes. Columbus, Ohio-based Snow has so far completed a mock-up of the engine installation.
Enaer has completed the installation of in-flight refuelling probes on a squadron of Chilean air force Northrop F-5E/Fs, and has modified Boeing 707s to act as tankers.
Enaer began taking orders at FIDAE for its Eaglet all-composite two seat light aircraft. European certification is expected in July, and the aircraft are to be assembled in the Netherlands.
Source: Flight International