Delivery Grob G120TP training aircraft to Ecuador

On 1 September 2020, three Grob G120TP primary training aircraft passed through Prestwick (UK) on delivery. At first instance it was not 100% clear to which country the training aircraft would be delivered. However, Ecuador was the suspect. The aircraft departed the same day to Reykjavik on their long haul.

And indeed, the aircraft were on delivery to Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana (Ecuador Air Force). In 2019, eight turboprop trainers and there was an option for eight more. The recipient is the Escuela Superior Militar de Aviación (ESMA) 'Cosme Renella' at Base Aérea Ulpiano Paez, Salinas where they will join the DA20s.

On 9 September, one of the aircraft was noted on ads-b in the circuit of its new home base. The three aircraft involved were identified by their German ferry registration; D-EGAQ, D-EGAR and D-ETPU. Unfortunately the construction number plates were not checked. If somebody has more information, we would be glad to hear this.

Photos: Eddie Wallace