Fábrica Argentina de Aviones
IA 100
The IA‑100 is a low‑cost, two‑seat trainer developed by the Fábrica Argentina de Aviones (FAdeA) in the early 2020s to replace aging basic trainers in the Argentine Air Force. The program began in 2018 as a joint effort between the Ministry of Defense and local industry, aiming to modernize pilot training while preserving national aerospace capabilities. Built from composite materials and a steel‑tube fuselage, the IA‑100 features a low‑wing monoplane layout, a 200‑horsepower Lycoming IO‑360‑D engine, and a fully digital glass cockpit with multifunction displays, GPS‑inertial navigation and automated flight‑control aids. Its retractable tricycle landing gear, side‑by‑side seating and low operating costs make it suitable for primary instruction, aerobatics, and light‑sport missions. Flight testing concluded in 2023 and the aircraft entered limited service in 2024, where it has been praised for handling, reliability and ease of maintenance. The IA‑100 represents a milestone for Argentine aviation, demonstrating the country’s ability to design and produce a contemporary trainer domestically, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and fostering the growth of the national aerospace sector. Plans are already under discussion to market the IA‑100 to neighboring South American air forces and civilian flight schools, further extending its impact on regional pilot development.
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 1