PAF gets 4 more brand-new trainer aircraft

CLARK FREEPORT, Philippines  – Four more brand-new SF-260 trainer aircraft will be delivered to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) today.

PAF spokesman Lt. Col. Ernesto Okol said the four aircraft would be the second batch of a total 18 airplanes costing P622.59 million and manufactured by Aerotech Industries Philippines, Inc., a partner of Italy-based Alenia Aermacchi.

“The acquisition of the new aircraft is a modest modernization for the Philippine Air Force and a big boost for PAF’s capability to train PAF pilots,” he said.

Okol said the first batch of four aircraft was turned over to the PAF at Haribon Hangar in Clark earlier this month.

“The increase in the number of SF-260FH fleet and positive changes made in improving the training curriculum for pilot training will further enhance and develop pilots professionally and keep them up to date with the changing times and advancements of technology in accordance with the Philippine Air Force’s thrusts in contributing to peace and development of our country,” he said.

Okol said the PAF’s pilot training system is designed to satisfy requirements in the T-41D training level. 

“Aviation students advance to the SF-260FH -- where training students are taught various types of maneuvers and techniques of flying involving greater speed and attention to details while subjected to higher level of G-force, after satisfying the requirements in the T-41D,” he said.

“During the primary phase, or the flight training in the T-41, students are introduced to the fundamentals of flying and handling an aircraft: how to take off and land safely, perform contact proficiency, develop techniques in basic and advance instrument flying, fly dual formations, and navigate flights to other aerodromes.”

Okol said those who finish the entire course become quality and competent pilots who are expected to operate the air assets of the Air Force and perform various missions related to rescue operations, security, and other support functions to peace and national development.

The aircraft are to be used at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City in Batangas for the training of 150 PAF student pilots, according to Capt. Archimedes Alde, 102nd basic pilot training Squadron commander.

– With Alexis Romero