The Ecuador Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana or FAE) has selected the Diamond DA20-C1 as its new primary flight training aircraft with an order for 12 airplanes.
The new fleet of DA20s, currently in production at Diamond Aircraft's London, Ontario, factory, will be operated by FAE's Air Force Academy “Cosme Rennella” at Salinas Air Base in Salinas, Ecuador. Deliveries will start in February.
The FAE said it selected the all-composite, two-seat DA20 because of its good safety record, low operating costs and proven durability in flight training environments.
“We are proud to have been selected by FAE to provide its new primary flight training fleet. The DA20 is ideal for the mission,” said Peter Maurer, president of Diamond Aircraft. “While the FAE pilot candidates will appreciate the visibility offered by the fighter-like canopy, the responsive flight characteristics, high useful load and the latest Garmin G500 glass cockpit, the Air Force will appreciate low operating costs, proven safety, high dispatch reliability and factory support.”
The contract includes a complete support program to FAE, including spare parts and on-site support, along with flight instructor and maintenance training.
