Aerospace industry in Latin America (1 Viewer)

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Budgetary Problems at FAdeA Complicate IA-63 Pampa III Production and K/C-130H Hercules Modernization for the Argentine Air Force
By Editorial Staff - June 7, 2025

In recent days, the signing of a new contract was confirmed between the Argentine Aircraft Factory "Brigadier San Martín" (FAdeA) and the Argentine Air Force for the production of the IA-63 Pampa III advanced training aircraft and the modernization and maintenance of the Argentine Air Force's K/C-130H Hercules transport aircraft. The agreement, which still requires final administrative approval from the Ministry of Defense and the Chief of Staff, contemplates an investment of approximately $112 million. However, the history of unfulfilled contracts and the critical situation facing FAdeA raise doubts about the program's execution.

The contract provides for the completion of three new IA-63 Pampa III aircraft, the modernization of three units to Block II standards, and the maintenance of three C-130 Hercules. A 30% advance payment is included for the purchase of supplies and spare parts, with an estimated execution period of three years.

Since 2015, FAdeA has maintained a constant relationship with the Air Force regarding the Pampa III, although marked by interruptions, delays, and successive renegotiations. Among the factors affecting production are political changes, budgetary restrictions, and logistical problems. Within this framework, a dozen aircraft were delivered between 2015 and 2024, including both new and modernized units.

The current administration faces a particularly delicate situation. FAdeA is under a Preventive Crisis Procedure, with an 80% salary reduction and rotating 90-day suspensions. This situation compromises its operational capacity and puts pressure on compliance with the new contract, signed at the end of May. For the Ministry of Defense, the agreement also represents a political measure to stabilize the situation in the face of a visible conflict with the state-owned company.

Credits: Nicolas Ramírez
At the same time, uncertainty persists over the future of the IA-100B Malvina. The aircraft, whose prototype was developed with funding from previous administrations and which recently completed its first flight, is conducting its first test flights with a view to its certification process. However, the Argentine Air Force has not yet made a decision regarding its acquisition. This situation calls into question the commercial viability of the system, as it will be difficult for an external user to incorporate it without validation from its own Air Force.

Finally, another critical point is the situation of the C-130 Hercules aircraft, a FAdeA line whose activity is currently reduced to a minimum. The three units located at the Cordoba factory raise questions about their availability for the upcoming 2025-2026 Antarctic Campaign, a strategic logistical event for Argentina's presence on the White Continent, which demands considerable effort from the FAA's C-130 fleet.

The new contract signed with FAdeA appears to be an opportunity to reactivate stalled programs, but its effectiveness will depend on the resolution of the structural problems affecting the factory and the political and administrative support received by the current agreement.

Problemas presupuestarios en FAdeA complican la producción de IA-63 Pampa III y la modernización de K/C-130H Hércules para la Fuerza Aérea Argentina

En los últimos días, se confirmó la firma de un nuevo contrato entre la Fábrica Argentina de Aviones “Brigadier San Martín” (FAdeA) y la Fuerza Aérea

www.zona-militar.com

 

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FAB begins modernization of C-97 Brasília aircraft fleet

All aircraft avionics will be updated, providing greater precision, reliability and integration with other systems

PAMA LS, ETA 6 and Agência Força Aérea, by Cap Emília

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has begun the process of modernizing its fleet of C-97 Brasília aircraft. The new avionics package – electronic systems and equipment – will provide improved capabilities, offering greater precision in navigation, greater reliability and integration with other advanced systems. The initiative is part of the FAB's ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and performance in aviation.

The modernization of the first three aircraft will be carried out by military personnel from the Lagoa Santa Aeronautical Material Park (PAMA LS), at the company's facilities in the United States, under the supervision of its technicians. The other units will be updated directly at PAMA LS.

“The modernization of this aircraft represents an important step for our Force and is the result of a collective effort. The entire process conducted by the logistics area — from planning and contracting to team preparation — was coordinated with great care by PAMA LS,” highlighted the Park Director, Air Force Colonel Claudomiro Feltran Junior.

“More than a technological advancement in an aircraft, this project marks a significant gain in the FAB’s operational capacity. The team sent will return qualified, ready to multiply the knowledge acquired and ensure autonomy and full control over the new systems incorporated into our fleet,” he added.

The first aircraft to undergo the process is part of the fleet of the Sixth Air Transport Group (6th ETA) – Guará Squadron – and was flown from Brasília to the United States this Monday (06/09). “The Squadron is extremely happy to be carrying out this mission. Being at the forefront of the Air Force in the modernization of the C-97 is a source of great pride and satisfaction for the pilots due to the operational gains achieved with the aircraft’s upgrade,” highlighted the Unit Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Airman Daniel Rodrigues Oliveira.

The modernization

The avionics package to be installed includes cutting-edge technologies in navigation, communication and surveillance, designed to increase pilots’ situational awareness and optimize mission-critical operations.

The main upgrade will be to the satellite navigation system (GPS), with the installation of PFDs (Primary Flight Displays) and MFDs (Multi-Function Displays) – screens integrated into the electronic flight instrument system. The PFD displays essential data such as altitude, speed and aircraft attitude, while the MFD presents navigation information, aircraft systems and can even function as a backup for the PFD.

“The modernization will allow the aircraft to operate even more safely, enabling it to perform RNP [Required Navigation Performance] procedures with precision. In addition, the increased situational awareness from instruments on board the aircraft is a very important operational gain for one of the cornerstone projects of the FAB’s air transport logistics,” said Air Force Captain Henrique Santos Barcelos da Costa, one of the pilots responsible for taking the first aircraft to the Worldwide Aircraft Services Inc. (WASI) facilities in the United States.

RNP is a navigation procedure that allows aircraft to fly specific trajectories and perform landings and takeoffs with high precision, based on navigation systems

FAB inicia modernização da frota de aeronaves C-97 Brasília - DefesaNet

Será atualizada toda a aviônica das aeronaves, trazendo mais precisão, confiabilidade e capacidade de integração com outros sistemas PAMA LS, ETA 6 e Agência Força Aérea, por Cap Emília A Força Aérea Brasileira (FAB) deu início ao processo de modernização de sua frota de aeronaves C-97 Brasília...

www.defesanet.com.br

 

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View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxsrkvIV34A


Designed by Oaxaca Aerospace, the Pegasus PE-210A is much more than an aircraft: it reflects the talent, innovation, and potential of the Mexican aerospace industry. From its futuristic airframe to its collaborations with national and international universities, this project marks a turning point in the history of aviation in Mexico.

 

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Chihuahua will participate in the Paris Air Show 2025​

11 June, 2025


The Chihuahua government confirmed its participation in the Paris Air Show 2025, one of the world's most important aerospace trade shows, which will be held from June 16 to 22 in Paris-Le Bourget, France. The main objective will be to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and position the state as a competitive destination for advanced manufacturing and high technology.

The Chihuahua delegation will hold a series of meetings with companies in the sector to showcase the state's industrial capabilities, which include more than 17,000 specialized jobs, technical education centers, and a supply chain that ranges from design to precision machining.

During a press conference, state authorities and business representatives outlined the strategic focus of the participation. Among those in attendance were the Secretary of Innovation and Economic Development, Ulises Fernández Gamboa; the president of the Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster, Mario Enríquez; Luis Azúa, from the Mexican Federation of the Aerospace Industry (FEMIA); René Espinosa, from Index Chihuahua; and Alejandro Jaschack, from the Chihuahua Economic Development Promotion Agency.

In addition to establishing commercial ties, the delegation will seek to identify trends in areas such as electric aviation, autonomous technologies, and sustainability, topics that are part of the event's global focus.

The 2025 edition of the Paris Air Show is expected to attract more than 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries and around 300,000 visitors, including representatives from governments, companies, manufacturers, and suppliers in the aerospace sector.

Chihuahua will participate in the Paris Air Show 2025 - MEXICONOW

The Chihuahua government confirmed its participation in the Paris Air Show 2025, one of the world's most important aerospace

mexico-now.com

 

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Embraer exhibits its Ipanema 203 crop duster at the Bahia Agricultural Show
06/09/2025 in Industry
Embraer exhibits its Ipanema 203 crop duster at the Bahia Agricultural Show
Embraer will exhibit the Ipanema 203, the best-selling crop duster in the Brazilian agricultural aviation market, during the 19th edition of the Bahia Agricultural Show, which is being held from today until June 14 in Luís Eduardo Magalhães (BA). With over 20 years of operation powered by 100% ethanol, the aircraft combines technology with robustness, high productivity with precision, and low operating costs.

“The Bahia Farm Show, one of Brazil's leading agricultural fairs, is a great opportunity to strengthen the presence of our aircraft in a region known for its diverse crop varieties, where producers seek the best solutions to achieve maximum productivity at the lowest production cost,” says Sany Onofre, Embraer's Agricultural Aviation leader.

With more than 180 units sold in the last three years, the aircraft continues to be the preferred choice of rural producers and offers a wide range of equipment designed to boost productivity and precision with sustainability. With an efficiency equivalent to four large ground sprayers operating simultaneously, the ethanol-powered aircraft sprays more than 200 hectares per hour, delivering high-quality application without kneading the soil or spreading pests through contact, generating a yield of up to 15 additional bags per hectare.

In addition to participating in the Bahia Agricultural Show with the Ipanema 203, Embraer has also promoted operational safety during the events, with an intense agenda of field initiatives addressing topics such as preventive inspections, a safe environment, and best practices for pilots, mechanics, and operators. Currently, 100% of agricultural pilot training courses in Brazil include a presentation by the Ipanema customer service team, ensuring a strong safety culture is instilled from the beginning of an agricultural pilot's professional career.

Embraer exhibe en el Salón Agrícola de Bahía su avión fumigador Ipanema 203

Embraer exhibirá el Ipanema 203, el avión fumigador líder en ventas en el mercado brasileño de aviación agrícola, durante la

actualidadaeroespacial.com

 

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Mexico has established itself as one of the main destinations for foreign investment in the aerospace industry. According to data from the Mexican Aerospace Industry Federation (FEMIA), the Mexican aerospace market is valued at US$11.2 billion and is projected to reach US$22.7 billion by 2029, driven by annual growth of more than 15 percent.

According to the Mexico Industry portal, at the end of the first half of 2024, 386 aerospace companies were operating in the country in 19 states, with 370 specialized plants generating more than 50,000 direct jobs and 190,000 indirect jobs. This progress has positioned Mexico as the world's twelfth largest exporter of aerospace components.

Against this backdrop, the 2025 Mexico Aerospace Fair (FAMEX), held from April 23 to 26 at the No. 1 Military Air Base in Santa Lucía, reaffirmed the country's strategic position in the sector. It brought together 337 companies, representatives from 48 countries, and 73 aircraft, including models such as the F-35 and the Airbus A400M.

Twenty air forces, 12 universities, and diplomats from 40 nations also participated. The fair was the scene of national innovations, such as the Pegasus PE-210A, the first aircraft designed and manufactured in Mexico by Oaxaca Aerospace. Designed for training and tactical missions, it incorporates advanced technology and can be adapted to electric or hydrogen engines, anticipating sustainable aviation.

Horizontec, a company from Celaya, Guanajuato, was also recognized with the “Made in Mexico” certificate for its Halcón 2 aircraft, assembled with high technology and in-house development. In addition, it promoted sustainability in aviation, rewarding Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) projects with methods such as Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) and Furans to Jet (FTJ). These initiatives seek to reduce the environmental footprint and promote a clean and sustainable future.

International cooperation was key at FAMEX 2025. Foreign governments and companies explored strategic alliances. Baja California, as an aerospace hub, signed agreements with SAFRAN and Meloche Group, reinforcing its position as a center for foreign investment.

Delphine Borione, French ambassador, highlighted that her country has invested almost $280 million in the Mexican aerospace sector, positioning itself as the second largest foreign investor. She also highlighted partnerships with universities to train qualified human capital.

Florence Copin, from Safran, emphasized that this company is the leading aerospace employer in Mexico, present in four states and accounting for 25 percent of the sector's workforce, employing nearly 15,000 people. She reaffirmed her commitment to innovation, excellence, and the professional development of Mexicans.

Mexico's aerospace industry projects to double its value by 2029 - MEXICONOW

Mexico has established itself as one of the main destinations for foreign investment in the aerospace industry. According to data...

mexico-now.com

 

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By MBN Staff | MBN staff - Wed, 06/11/2025 - 17:03


Mexicana de Aviación will add the first of its 20 Embraer E190-E2 aircraft into its fleet on June 24, 2025 — a full month later than initially planned. The delay reflects a recurring issue for the state-owned airline, which had originally announced the first delivery for May, according to General Director Leobardo Ávila during the public presentation of the aircraft model in November 2024.

Documents reviewed by El Financiero attribute the delay to an extended final assembly process that began in early May and may take up to six weeks. Following assembly, the aircraft must complete a series of test flights and obtain certification from Mexican aviation authorities before entering national airspace.

“Only the first aircraft has a confirmed delivery date of June 24, 2025; the others remain subject to confirmation,” the airline stated. According to its internal delivery schedule, the second aircraft is expected in August, followed by two more in November and a fifth in December.

The purchase of the 20 Embraer aircraft, valued at MX$21.7 billion (US$1.17 million), forms part of a fleet renewal and expansion program set to run through 2027. Mexicana de Aviación currently operates three aircraft, though only two are typically active, limiting its operational capacity. The new aircraft aim to bolster domestic routes, including Tulum, Ixtepec, and Monterrey, with plans to launch international flights to Colombia and the Dominican Republic as the fleet grows.

Despite its expansion efforts, Mexicana de Aviación continues to post financial losses. In 1Q25, the airline reported a net loss of MX$180 million (US$9.73 million), adding to cumulative losses since its launch, now totaling MX$1.43 billion (US$77.5 million).

Financial records obtained by El Financiero show that from January to March 2025, Mexicana generated MX$91.24 million (US$4.93 million) in revenue, compared to over MX$270 million (US$14.6 million) spent on payroll and aircraft operations. During this period, Mexicana de Aviación transported 81,300 passengers, averaging 90 passengers per flight, according to the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC).

The airline still depends on TAR Aerolíneas to operate several routes under an intermediation agreement. While some improvements in occupancy rates have been noted, Mexicana de Aviacón’s business model remains financially unsustainable. On average, the airline lost MX$3.42 million (US$185,000) per day in 1Q25 due to high operational costs and insufficient revenue.

In its first year of operations, Mexicana de Aviación earned MX$385 million (US$20.89 million) in ticket sales but required MX$1.64 billion (US$88.65 million) to remain operational, resulting in operating losses of MX$1.25 billion (US$67.57 million), according to reviewed financial statements.

Internal financial documents also reveal that Mexicana has yet to establish fixed operational targets and is awaiting further aircraft deliveries to implement its full business model. The airline estimates the total cost of the 20 Embraer aircraft at MX$21.76 billion (US$1.17 billion). The Ministry of Defense, via transparency channels, disclosed that Mexicana de Aviacón does not anticipate profitability until 2029.

Mexicana Delays Embraer E190-E2 Delivery, Affecting Small Fleet

Mexicana de Aviación delays adding its first Embraer E190-E2 by a month, impacting its limited fleet of three aircraft, with two active

mexicobusiness.news

 

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The B-01, designed by David Bárcenas Beutelspacher, was a Mexican crop duster aircraft whose design incorporated notable innovations, especially in the wings, known as the "Bárcenas wing - or profile", which allowed for improved climbs and control of the aircraft, as well as reduced drag.

Avión Bárcenas B01

Un hombre, una historia, una vida

museodavidbarcenas.org