AAFC to welcome first powered aircraft fleet in 2019

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, has announced that the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) will take delivery of its first fleet of powered aircraft in 2019. Royal Australian Air Force is providing eight new Diamond DA40 NG aircraft to support safer, more advanced training for Cadets.

The fleet signals another step forward in capability for AAFC following the introduction of glider aircraft in 2014. The DA40 NG features the latest in avionics technology and a turbocharged jetfuel piston engine, giving Cadets the opportunity to learn on an aerodynamically advanced aircraft with contemporary navigation and flight control systems.

The aircraft are due to enter into operations in the first half of 2019. They will be based at RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland, RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales and RAAF Base Point Cook in Victoria, and will regularly travel to regional airfields across the country.

The Australian Air Force Cadets acknowledges this country and its traditional custodians.

We acknowledge and respect the spiritual relationship between the traditional custodians and this country which is inspired by language of songs, dance law and dream time stories over many thousands of years and we pay our respect to the elders who have passed into the dreaming, those here today, and those of tomorrow. May we continue to peacefully walk together in gratitude, respect and kindness in caring for this country and each other.