The RAAF’s first Pilatus PC-21s are due to touch down in Australia, starting a new era in pilot training Australia has been central to the development of the Pilatus PC-21, the next-generation turboprop trainer that enters service this year to replace the venerable Pilatus PC-9. Stans, Switzerland-based Pilatus made the decision to develop what became
Reflections on an earlier RAAF fighter transition With the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II waiting in the wings and time soon to be called on the venerable F/A-18 Classic Hornet, it is timely to reflect on how the RAAF effected previous fighter transitions. Subsequent articles will examine the shifts from the Mirage to the Hornet, and
The Boeing EA-18G Growler represents the RAAF’s biggest revolutionary step-change in capability since the introduction of the F-111 The Royal Australian Air Force’s first Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft were due to begin at their Amberley base in late February ahead of their planned public debut at the Avalon Airshow. Their arrival will herald
Taking responsiblility Duty of care – we hear a lot about it these days. Yet another catchphrase in the ever-growing dictionary of catchphrases. However, in aviation, duty of care does have some relevance. And that relevance excess on several levels. In the immediate context, a pilot has a duty of care to their crew, their
Where will our new pilots come from? The aerial application industry stands at a crossroads for pilot training – do we achieve fundamental reform of our pilot training system, or do we expand our use of international pilots – taking advantage of the availability of Canadian and US pilots in their off-season? We have got
F-35 production ramps up as battle rages over bringing its price down The Australian Government can be thankful for Donald Trump’s negotiating skills after the new US President took credit for a US$600 million reduction in price for the next batch of 90 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters Australia’s next eight F-35As are among the 90