TA-2

The TA‑2, introduced by Atlantic Aircraft in 1998, quickly became the company's flagship trainer‑light aircraft. Developed from the earlier Atlantic TA‑1 prototype, the TA‑2 incorporated advanced composite materials and a digital glass cockpit, meeting the demands of both military pilot schools and civilian flight academies. Its low‑wing monocoque design, powered by a turbo‑charged 300‑horsepower Lycoming TIO‑540‑C4A engine, delivers a cruising speed of 210 knots and a range of 950 nautical miles, while retaining gentle handling characteristics ideal for ab initio training. The aircraft’s notable features include fly‑by‑wire sidestick controls, a full‑authority digital engine‑control (FADEC) system, and an integrated safety parachute that can be deployed within seconds of an emergency. Production continued until 2015, during which more than 350 units were delivered to over 30 operators worldwide. The TA‑2’s reliability and cost‑effective operation helped modernize pilot training curricula, reducing flight hours required to achieve competency. Its legacy endures as a bridge between classic piston trainers and the newer jet‑based platforms, influencing subsequent designs such as the Atlantic Falcon series. Operators also praised the TA‑2 for its low fuel consumption, averaging 6.5 gallons per hour, and its capacity to perform aerobatic maneuvers, expanding its role beyond primary training to advanced skill development.