US Air Force divests three A-29 Super Tucano aircraft

The US Air Force has divested three A-29C Super Tucano turboprops previously assigned to the Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, California. A spokesperson for the base stated that after a thorough evaluation, the aircraft did not meet the intended requirements for the school.

The Air Force is currently exploring alternative options for mission systems instruction and spin training. According to a notice of intent, the Air Force Test Center plans to award Sierra Nevada Company a sole-source agreement for on-call maintenance and ground handling, such as repairing leaks and towing. However, the notice specifies that these aircraft are not expected to return to flight for Air Force use, and airworthiness restoration is excluded from the contract.

Originally acquired by Air Force Special Operations Command for the Combat Aviation Advisor mission, the aircraft were transferred to the Test Pilot School in July 2024 after AFSOC requirements changed. The aircraft were delivered by Embraer and Sierra Nevada Company.