ENAER
T-35 Pillán
The T‑35 Pillán is a primary trainer aircraft produced by ENAER (Empresa Nacional de Aeronáutica de Chile) beginning in the early 1970s. Developed from the Swiss Pilatus PC‑9 trainer, the Pillán was designed to replace aging piston‑engine trainers in the Chilean Air Force and to serve export markets in Latin America. Its first flight occurred on 28 February 1977, and series production commenced shortly thereafter, delivering more than 250 units to Chile, Peru, Argentina, and several civilian operators.
The aircraft features a low‑wing, all‑metal construction, powered by a 300‑horsepower Lycoming AEIO‑540‑A1C turboprop engine, delivering reliable performance for basic flight instruction, aerobatics, and light utility missions. Its tandem cockpit, equipped with dual controls and modern avionics, provides an optimal training environment. The Pillán’s robust airframe, forgiving handling characteristics, and low operating costs have made it a popular choice for initial pilot training and for rotary‑wing conversion programs.
In aviation history, the T‑35 Pillán represents a successful national aerospace effort, positioning Chile as a regional manufacturer of competent trainer aircraft and contributing to the development of indigenous aviation capabilities throughout South America.
The aircraft features a low‑wing, all‑metal construction, powered by a 300‑horsepower Lycoming AEIO‑540‑A1C turboprop engine, delivering reliable performance for basic flight instruction, aerobatics, and light utility missions. Its tandem cockpit, equipped with dual controls and modern avionics, provides an optimal training environment. The Pillán’s robust airframe, forgiving handling characteristics, and low operating costs have made it a popular choice for initial pilot training and for rotary‑wing conversion programs.
In aviation history, the T‑35 Pillán represents a successful national aerospace effort, positioning Chile as a regional manufacturer of competent trainer aircraft and contributing to the development of indigenous aviation capabilities throughout South America.
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Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 140
- First Flight
- 1981
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- ENAER
- Wikidata ID
- Q1339927