US Air Force Divests Three A-29 Super Tucanos

The U.S. Air Force has divested three A-29 Super Tucanos that it evaluated for the Air Force Test Pilot School, after determining they did not suit the school’s intended use.

Key details

• The aircraft were initially acquired by Air Force Special Operations Command and later transferred after mission requirements changed.
• Edwards Air Force Base officials said they are exploring alternatives that can support a sustainable aircraft capability, including spin training and mission systems.
• A notice published October 29 outlined a planned sole-source contract with Sierra Nevada Corporation to store the A-29s. The contract would include one base year and options for two additional years.
• The notice said the aircraft were not expected to return to Air Force flight operations.

An Edwards Air Force Base spokesperson said the Air Force had divested all three A-29s.

Why it matters

The search for an alternative will shape how the Test Pilot School supports training involving spins and mission systems. Those capabilities let students work with aircraft behavior and onboard equipment as part of their training.