Engineers at the Czech Aerospace Research Centre in Prague have successfully completed a third phase of flight testing on the new-generation L-39 fighter jet, paving the way for its operational lifespan to far exceed that of its predecessor. The prototype, designated as serial number 7003, underwent the third life cycle ground test, confirming that the lifespan of the new aircraft will be significantly longer than that of its predecessor, the L-39 Albatros.

The flight test of the L-39 NG at the Czech Aerospace Research Centre (VZLÚ) began on May 25, 2020, and was scheduled to last for two years. Aerospace technology has already completed two life cycles of ground fatigue testing to obtain type certification.

Fátigued Testing Confirms Longevity of Aero Vodochody L-39NG Aircraft

The recent completion of the third cycle of fatigue testing, which subjected the prototype to loading comparable to 10,000 flight hours, was accomplished in line with VZLÚ’s protocol. On September 18, 2020, the L-39NG aircraft received type certification, signifying its eligibility to operate in international airspaces and meet all safety requirements. The fatigue test at VZLÚ began on May 25, 2020, and extended for two years. In order to obtain type certification, Aero had to complete two life cycles in the ground fatigue test (i.e., loading comparable to 10,000 flight hours), which was met on time and in accordance with VZLÚ’s certification standards.

The recent completion of the third lifecycle ground fatigue test confirms that the lifespan of the new aircraft will be significantly longer than its predecessor. The entire fatigue test is scheduled to be completed by April 2022. The L-39NG aircraft should have three times longer lifespan than the original Albatros. The fourth fatigue lifecycle of the L-39NG is now starting, and the entire completion of the fatigue test is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022. Depending on the way the aircraft is used, the service life of the L-39NG is up to 15,000 flight hours. The project of the L-39NG fatigue test is financed by the state subsidy from the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic within the TREND Programme.

The L-39NG (Next Generation) is a modern aircraft designed by the Czech manufacturer Aero Vodochody and is used for light attack and pilot training for both air forces and fighter generation programs. The L-39NG, which received its type certificate in September 2020, is powered by the FJ44-4M engine and features optimized aerodynamics and materials, modern avionics, and five hardpoints for weapons and is compatible with a range of simulation technologies.

The L-39 Albatros has been upgraded several times with numerous variants since its introduction in 1972. Over 2,900 L-39s have been built and served with over 30 air forces around the world. The latest version, the L-39NG, was launched in 2014.