P3 Flyers
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.
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.