The first pre-serial L-39NG training combat aircraft with serial number 7001 made its first flight at Aero Vodochody Airport on December 22nd.

The new generation light attack aircraft and jet trainer was assembled by Aero with a package of airframe parts manufactured by Evektor-Aertechnik. Evektor-Aerotechnik is one of the main suppliers of the airframe subassemblies for L-39NG program, delivering fuselage nose section, rear fuselage section with tail, horizontal stabilizer, rudder and elevator, air brakes and package of CNC machined parts.

The first flight of L-39NG followed two months after the introduction and rollout ceremony that happened on October 12, 2018. On December 22nd L-39NG took off from the runway at 10:38 am, climbed up to 5,000 ft. and after 26 minutes successfully landed. The maturity of the platform allowed the execution of some development tests during the flight.

L-39NG flew in a configuration that is representative for a serially manufactured aircraft. Aero plans to achieve type certification by end of 2019.

During 2018, Aero announced agreements with several customers - Republic of Senegal, Portuguese private company SkyTech and American company RSW Aviation; securing production of 38 units of L-39NG. In December Aero reported ongoing finalization of an agreement with a domestic Czech state military company and pilot training provider LOM Praha, and promising negotiations with other L-39NG prospective buyers.

The L-39NG aircraft is a modern effective light combat aircraft and military jet trainer. The aircraft is a next generation of the legendary L-39 Albatros which is operated in air forces of more than 30 countries. The L-39NG has a redesigned airframe with reduced weight and increased service life, is powered by the new Williams FJ44-4M engine and equipped with a modern integrated digital avionics.