AAFC to receive training aircraft

The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) is set to receive eight Diamond DA40 NG light aircraft for its flight training requirements, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 28 February.

Over the next ten years, these aircraft will provide a standardised flight training platform for aspiring for the cadets, particularly to those who are from regional areas.

The Diamond DA40 NG aircraft will be based at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Amberley in Southern Queensland, RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales and RAAF Base Point Cook in Victoria.

The aircraft will be regularly deployed to regional areas on weekends and during school holiday periods.

Darren Chester, Australia’s Minister for Defence Personnel, said: ‘Defence has signed a ten-year contract with Airflite, which includes the provision of maintenance services. Airflite has been the principal maintenance contractor for the Royal Australian Air Force PC-9/A aircraft and has provided outstanding support for the past 30 years.’