8 Ocober 2024 - In September of this year, the legendary Czech aircraft L 410 set out with its crew from Kunovice, Moravia, on a journey across the African continent. The goal of the Africa Tour expedition was to open new markets for the aircraft, demonstrate its capabilities at several business stops, and participate in one of the world’s most significant aviation fairs, the Africa Aerospace and Defense Expo (AAD) 2024, held near Johannesburg.
“Africa represents significant potential for L 410 aircraft, particularly due to their ability to operate in challenging conditions. We are confident that our planes can contribute substantially to the development of aviation infrastructure on the continent,” says Alena Medová, Chairwoman of the Board at Aircraft Industries. “This extensive marketing journey is an opportunity for us to show our potential partners firsthand the advantages the L 410 offers to African markets and to build on our long-standing tradition on the continent.”
With the support of its owner, OMNIPOL, Aircraft Industries has been successfully expanding into new markets, increasing its global presence, and strengthening its position in regions with challenging conditions, such as Africa.
The Journey Across Africa
The L 410 expedition lasted from September 9, 2024, to October 2, 2024, nearly a month. During this demanding journey, the L 410 covered an impressive 23,172 km, spent over 87 hours in the air, and consumed approximately 26 tons of fuel. The crew made stops in 21 different destinations, including Egypt, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Madagascar, Seychelles, Ethiopia, and Greece. In addition to mandatory technical stops, the aircraft was presented in person to senior representatives of African nations and participated in a total of 8 business meetings and demonstration flights. One notable meeting included a discussion with the President of Madagascar, Andry Nirina Rajoelina.
Africa Aerospace and Defense Expo 2024
The highlight of the expedition was participating in the renowned Africa Aerospace and Defense Expo, which took place from September 18 to 22, 2024, at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng, near Johannesburg. This prestigious event, one of the most important defense and aviation exhibitions in the world, attracted over 40,000 participants from more than 30 countries and showcased technologies from over 450 companies in the defense and aviation industries.
“Participating in the AAD Expo is crucial for us. We want to show that the L 410 is not only a modern and reliable aircraft but also an ideal solution for the specific needs of African customers,” says Medová.
L 410 Benefits: Ideal for Africa
During the Africa Tour expedition, the L 410 clearly demonstrated its key benefits. These include reliability, durability, safety, low operating and maintenance costs, as well as the ability to take off and land on short, unpaved runways (STOL), allowing it to operate on various surfaces, such as sand or grass.
“The L 410 is designed to handle challenging conditions, such as unpaved runways or high temperatures. These features make it an ideal candidate for regions where infrastructure is limited,” Medová explains, adding, “Currently, nearly 150 L 410 aircraft operate in around 27 African countries.”
The L 410 also excels in operating at high altitudes and extreme temperatures, ranging from -50°C to +50°C. The NG series version, with a new wing design and larger fuel tank, offers a longer range.
The aircraft is multi-purpose and can serve customers in several configurations. In addition to the passenger version for 19 passengers, Aircraft Industries also produces cargo, MPA, ambulance, medical, and paratrooper versions. Its unique modification for transporting patients with highly infectious diseases is produced by only three aviation companies worldwide.
Conclusion
The L 410 expedition across Africa is more than just a journey to an important exhibition – it is a demonstration of technologies and solutions that can help connect vast regions of Africa. With exceptional capabilities for landing on unpaved surfaces, a rugged landing gear, and reliable economic operation, the L 410 has great potential in African aviation.