Draken International now offering L-39NG multi-role aircraft upgrade program.

The L-39NG upgrade adds many modern and advanced capabilities that are critical for 21st century aviation. The key new feature is the light and fuel-efficient Williams International FJ44-4M engine, which delivers improved performance at speed, range and endurance. Further, a new electric starter allows the original APU to be removed with all its components, saving considerable weight. In the cockpit, new digital instruments are added as well as OEM overhauled ejection seats with fresh pyro. Additionally, a full IRAN of all major systems brings the aircraft up to current OEM compliance.

The upgrade offers numerous benefits, such as decreased fuel consumption by approx. 15%, decreased maintenance costs – "Support by the hour" program fully covers scheduled maintenance, unscheduled maintenance, and foreign object damages, improved acceleration time – 3-5 seconds from idle to max vs. 9-12 seconds on existing AI-25TL engine, a quicker maintenance turnaround – Major periodic inspections of FJ44-4M take 4 weeks vs. 4-6 months for overhaul of original AI-25TL engine, and a decreased aircraft weight by approx. 330 lbs. due to lighter engine and removal of heavy APU and balance weight.

Draken International CEO Jared Isaacman states, "As operators of numerous L-39 aircraft for contract air services, we know that it is a very capable aircraft platform, with excellent maneuverability, adaptability and overall performance. The L-39NG upgrade program represents the next generation of this remarkable aircraft and we are excited to bring this program to the Americas."