Adapting to the Jet Age in a Fouga Magister

Ride along on a Microsoft Flight Simulator journey through history in the world’s first two-seat jet trainer.

Patrick Chovanec

Monday, June 03, 2024 at 04:42 PM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

Fouga CM.170 Magister in Microsoft Flight Simulator. [Courtesy: Patrick Chovanec]

Key Takeaways:

The Fouga CM.170 Magister, the world's first two-seat jet trainer, played a pivotal role from the 1950s in helping global air forces transition from piston to jet aircraft.
Known for its elegant, glider-inspired design and innovative V-tail, it was widely praised for its agility and ease of control, making it popular for both training and aerobatic teams.
Widely exported and license-produced, the Magister also saw active combat in various "brush wars" globally, serving as a versatile light attack aircraft.
Although retired from military service by the late 20th century, its distinctive characteristics ensure its enduring appeal among private owners today.

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Today, in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, I’ll be flying the Fouga CM.170 Magister, the world’s first two-seat jet trainer. Starting in the 1950s, it played a key role in transitioning several air forces from piston to jet aircraft and also fought in a number of “brush wars.”

I’ll start the story at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (LFBO) in southern France. The French company Établissements Fouga & Cie had its aircraft production facilities here, which were eventually folded into larger companies and are now the main assembly plant for Airbus.