Military and airline trainer
CT-4 Airtrainer
The CT-4 Airtrainer has trained generations of military pilots. In 2026 it goes back into production with a glass cockpit and modern training features.
A two-seat, side-by-side, all-metal low-wing trainer with fixed tricycle gear, capable of VFR and IFR operations and fully aerobatic from +6 g to −3 g. Light, well balanced and forgiving, yet challenging for students.
The CT-4E has a 300 hp Lycoming engine, a three-blade propeller and EFIS. It is a lower-cost lead-in to turboprop trainers such as the T-6 Texan II and the PC-21, with low maintenance and operating costs.
Back in production
Back in production
In August 2026 NZAero announced the restart of CT-4 production after 14 years, alongside a new aviation agreement with Thailand. Five new aircraft are being built.
The new CT-4 adds a glass cockpit, flight data capture and safety upgrades, and suits upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT).
Development
1972
The first CT-4 flies in February, developed by AESL from the Victa Aircruiser.
1973
Production starts with 24 CT-4As for the Royal Thai Air Force, followed by 37 for the RAAF.
1976
The Royal New Zealand Air Force orders its first CT-4s.
1990s
Civil CT-4Bs for airline training and development of the CT-4E.
2026
The last RAAF CT-4 flight marks 50 years in Australia, and production restarts.
Specifications
CT-4 Airtrainer
- Engine
- Lycoming, 300 hp
- Seats
- 2, side by side
- Aerobatic limits
- +6 g / −3 g
- Basic empty weight
- 770 kg1,700 lb
- Max. landing weight
- 1,180 kg2,600 lb
- Cruise speed
- 278 km/h150 KIAS
- Stall speed
- 83 km/h45 KIAS
- Range
- 963 km520 NM
- Usable fuel
- 199 L44 imp gal
- Fuel consumption
- 65 L/h
- Take-off ground roll
- 183 m600 ft
- Landing ground roll
- 168 m553 ft
- Rate of climb, sea level
- 558 m/min1,830 ft/min
- Wingspan
- 7.9 m26 ft
- Length
- 7.16 m23.5 ft
- Height
- 2.59 m8.5 ft
- Cabin width
- 1.1 m3.6 ft
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