Czech ALTO NG aircraft for Ukraine: an overview of the new trainer aircraft for Ukrainian pilots
Ukraine has received 10 ALTO NG light trainer aircraft for pilot training. This is an important step in building Ukraine’s modern infrastructure for aircrew training, which will help reduce dependence on foreign training programmes and save state resources.
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine outlines what is known about ALTO NG aircraft.
ALTO NG aircraft: design upgrades and intended use
The ALTO NG (New Generation) is a Czech-made single-engine, two-seat ultralight aircraft. Production of this upgraded model began in 2022. It replaced the earlier ALTO 912 TG variant.
The fuselage structure and flight control systems were substantially redesigned to improve rigidity and reliability.
The ALTO NG is primarily intended for training, patrol, and recreational flights.
ALTO NG technical specifications
The aircraft is powered by a Rotax 912 ULS engine, which provides ample power for its class.
The maximum take-off weight is 600 kg. The wingspan is 8.2 metres, and the fuselage is 6.3 metres long. The 1.1-metre-wide cockpit provides sufficient space for both pilots to operate the aircraft comfortably.
Cruising speed is up to 180 km/h, while maximum speed reaches 260 km/h. Fuel capacity is 92 litres.
Other technical specifications:
- Length: 6.3 m
- Height: 2.25 m
- Wing area: 10.6 m²
- Empty weight: 320 kg
The ratio of airframe weight to wing area provides predictable aerodynamic characteristics across a range of flight conditions.
The aircraft complies with current European standards for ultralight aircraft.
The benefits of ALTO NG aircraft for training Ukrainian pilots
The ALTO NG aircraft will provide Ukrainian pilots with additional opportunities for high-quality training.
The aircraft will be used to practise:
- Basic and advanced flying – mastering aircraft handling in a variety of conditions;
- Take-off and approach procedures in accordance with NATO standards;
- Procedures required for the subsequent transition to modern Western fighter aircraft.
Training on the ALTO NG will help ensure that Ukrainian pilots achieve a high level of combat readiness. This is particularly important given that protecting the skies is one of the priorities of Ukraine’s defence strategy.
As previously reported, Ukraine received 10 ALTO NG aircraft through the Air Force Capability Coalition, with five provided through the direct support of the Czech government and the remaining five donated by Czech citizens through the well-known charitable foundation Dárek pro Putina.
The Ministry of Defence expresses its gratitude to the Air Force Capability Coalition, the Czech government, the Dárek pro Putina Charitable Foundation and Czech citizens for their sustained support and contribution to strengthening the protection of Ukraine’s skies.
Earlier, the Ministry of Defence reported that Ukraine had received its first mobile F-16 flight simulators for pilot training.