M.B.308

The Alenia Aermacchi MB‑308 is an Italian two‑seat, low‑wing trainer that first flew in 1970 and entered limited production shortly thereafter. Developed by the then‑Aeritalia design office, the aircraft was intended to replace aging trainers in flight schools and to provide a reliable platform for basic aerobatics, sailplane towing, and light‑sport flying. Powered by a 150 hp Lycoming O‑320‑E2A air‑cooled engine, the MB‑308 features an all‑metal semi‑monocoque fuselage, a fixed tricycle undercarriage and side‑by‑side seating under a large, upward‑opening canopy that offers excellent visibility for instructor and student alike. With a wingspan of 9.15 m, a maximum speed of 210 km/h, a stall speed near 68 km/h and a range of roughly 1 000 km, the aircraft delivers forgiving handling while still permitting advanced maneuvers such as rolls and loops. Only about 30 units were built, but the type proved influential; its straightforward design and structural concepts were carried forward into the more powerful MB‑339 jet trainer that dominated European military training for decades. The MB‑308 thus occupies a niche but pivotal role in Italian aviation history, exemplifying a transition from piston‑engine trainers to modern jet‑based programs.