First flight of the first mass-produced L-39NG... 

The Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody has successfully flown the first mass-produced L-39NG aircraft. During the flight, the pilots tested the functions of the trainer aircraft as part of the factory's standard sortie program. The flight tested the behavior of the L-39NG in its normal operational envelope.

...40 minutes 

The first production flight of the L-39NG lasted about 40 minutes. The pilots checked the operation of the engine, aircraft systems and avionics, as well as the aircraft's handling and behavior in all phases of flight, from takeoff to aerobatics to landing. The tests were conducted at altitudes between 0 and 8,500 meters and at speeds ranging from stall to maximum (Mach number 0.8 or 900 km/h). "The flight of the first production aircraft has confirmed that the L-39NG is ready for production delivery to our customers. In terms of design, flight characteristics, safety, avionics and modern equipment, it is an excellent platform for training pilots of fourth and fifth generation fighters," said Viktor Sotona, president and CEO of Aero.

A production L-39NG for a Southeast Asian customer

"While this is a significant milestone from Aero's perspective, the sortie itself is a rather routine affair and is carried out after each aircraft is produced. The exit program has already proven itself on the L-39NG prototypes. The first production aircraft with serial number 7005 has met all the requirements of the program," add Petr Jinda, executive vice president and director of development, and Jaromir Lang, chief designer of the L-39NG, Aero. The first production L-39NG trainer aircraft is destined for a Southeast Asian customer. Other customers include Hungary and the Czech Republic. Aero currently has orders for 34 units of the L-39NG.`

Increased production within two years 

Aero recently commissioned a new production line dedicated solely to the L-39NG aircraft. Within two years, the traditional Czech aircraft manufacturer plans to increase its L-39NG production to 24 units per year. Other Czech companies are also involved in L-39NG production. More than 60 percent of Aero's suppliers are domestic companies.