Boeing and Saab completed the first flight of the second TX trainer. The aircraft, identical to the first one, was designed to meet the requirements of the US Air Force race for advanced pilot training.
The flight, with the TX test pilot Steve Schmidt and Boeing test driver Matt Giese at the controls, lasted an hour.
The pilots commented positively: "The jet behaved exactly like the first model and as a simulator, satisfying all expectations," said Giese. “Both cockpits work together, integrated, and with greater ease of use. It is the ideal aircraft for training future generations of combat pilots “.
Boeing and Saab revealed the design of the TX in September 2016. The first flight took place last December.
The joint venture aims to replace the current US Air Force T-38. The initial operational capacity is foreseen for 2024.
(photo: Boeing)
