P3 Flyers
Country
Switzerland
Size
5 Aircraft
Base
Ambri Airport
The P3 Flyers is a civilian aerobatic team known for their dynamic performances with 5 Pilatus P-3 aircraft, previously in service with the Swiss Air Force. Their journey began in 1992 when they acquired their first Pilatus P-3, leading to their inaugural display in 1996 with a modest two-aircraft formation routine. Over the years, they expanded their fleet, gradually enhancing their displays. By 2007, all five aircraft in their fleet were outfitted with a smoke system, bringing an extra dazzle to their intricate aerial manoeuvres. Annually, they undergo rigorous training and obtain authorization from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation for their aerobatic demonstrations.
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Pilatus P-3
The Pilatus P-3 is a two-seat training aircraft designed as a cantilever low-wing aircraft. It was developed and built by the Swiss company Pilatus Flugzeugwerke AG. 72 units were built for the Swiss Air Force and six for Brazil.
The Pilatus P-3 was designed for primary and advanced training (including night flying, aerobatics and instrument flying). The military version was designated P-3-03. It was of all-metal construction with a retractable tricycle undercarriage and tandem seating. There was provision for underwing racks for light practice bombs or rockets and a machine gun in a pod below the port wing.
The first prototype was built in 1953 and flew on 3 September, the same year. The Swiss Air Force received 72 examples of this aircraft while the Brazilian Navy acquired six. The Swiss Air Force used the P-3 as a training aircraft until 1983, although it continued to be used as a liaison aircraft for another decade. In 1993–1995, 65 ex-Swiss Air Force aircraft were sold on the private market.
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