RAAF PC-21 fleet complete

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has received its final Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, completing the fleet at RAAF Base East Sale in Victoria.

The 49 strong PC-21 advanced pilot training fleet is a key component of the $1.5 billion AIR 5428 project being delivered by Lockheed Martin, Pilatus and Jet Aviation.

The AIR 5428 Pilot Training System will train future pilots of the RAAF, Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Army. From early 2020, the PC-21 will also be used for flight test and evaluation at RAAF Base Edinburgh and forward air control at RAAF Base Williamtown

The PC-21 replaces the PC-9/A aircraft, which will conclude its 30 year service at the end of 2019.

Darren Chester, Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel, said: ‘Undergraduate pilots at RAAF Bases East Sale and Pearce will now be able to use the best equipment along with a new tailored Pilot Training System, which will meet their needs and those of future recruits.

‘The new system can train more people faster and to a higher standard and will ensure undergraduate pilots develop the necessary skills before moving to more advanced military aircraft.’