Colombia increases inventory of Cessna 172 Trainers to 19

A Colombian Air Force Cessna 172 on static display. Colombia's inventory of Cessna 172 reached 19 aircraft, which are used for pilot training for the nation's air force. (Erich Saumeth Cadavid)

The Colombian Air Force (FAC) has increased its inventory of Cessna 172 Skyhawk primary training aircraft to 19, following the arrival of three new units on 11 May, the FAC reported.

The Skyhawk fleet now consists of aircraft with registration numbers FAC2470 through FAC2488. The aircraft are part of the FAC's pilot training system modernisation process, which aims to bolster basic flight instruction with contemporary operational safety standards, logistical availability, and maintenance efficiency.

FAC's phased modernisation is designed to replace its Cessna T-41 Mescalero and CIAC T-90 Calima aircraft. The FAC has retired the T-41s and T-90s from service, with five more Skyhawks needed to complete the FAC's planned fleet of 24 Cessna 172s, according to the FAC.

The FAC trains students on glass cockpit platforms from an early stage, facilitating their subsequent transition to more complex military aircraft and modern ISR systems. Aircraft maintenance is carried out under scheduled and flight-hour inspection programmes, including checks every 50, 100, and 200 hours, in addition to major annual inspections, following Textron Aviation, Lycoming, and Garmin manuals.

The three new Skyhawks join 16 aircraft in operation and assigned to Primary Flight Squadron No 111 of the Military Aviation School (EMAVI).