First CT-102B Astra II Test Flight Completed

The first production test flight of the CT-102B Astra II (Grob G 120TP), intended for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), was completed on July 24 at the Grob Aircraft facility in Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany. The flight lasted approximately 30 minutes and is part of the standard manufacturing and delivery process.

SkyAlyne’s Chief Pilot, Michel Savard, participated in the flight and stated, “The CT-102B is a very impressive aircraft to operate, and its capabilities greatly exceed the current piston-powered CT-102As that are in service in Canada. The CT-102B will be an impressive upgrade that introduces new capabilities into the Basic Flying Training element of the new Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.”

Initial flight evaluations included engine, systems, and flight control checks. Further testing will examine performance across broader operating conditions. The aircraft is powered by the Rolls-Royce M250-B17F turbine engine, producing up to 456 shaft horsepower. With an operating weight of approximately 1,400 kg, the aircraft offers aerobatic capabilities for pilot training.

According to SkyAlyne’s Head of Aircraft Acquisition, Lyle Fair, the first two CT-102Bs are expected to arrive in Canada in September. 

The aircraft will be delivered to the RCAF for integration into the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. The CT-102Bs, registered with Canada’s Department of National Defence, will be loaned to SkyAlyne and based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, where pilot training will be jointly conducted with the RCAF.