In October, Ascent visited Pilatus Aircraft facilities in Switzerland, where we experienced the PC-21 first hand.

Our team was very impressed with the aircraft and associated ground based training systems. Huge thanks to the entire Pilatus team for their hospitality and openness throughout the visit.

Ascent Fast Jet QFI, Gary Clark, said: “Another fantastic visit to a very impressive manufacturer. It is fascinating to see what Pilatus are doing with the PC-21 and evolving it for the demands of 5th Generation and beyond. A beautiful aircraft to fly and a beautiful part of the world to fly in!”

As Training Service Partner under the UK Military Flying Training System, it is important for Ascent to engage with industry on the range of training aircraft and systems currently on the market.

This is even more essential following the announcement of the UK’s Jet Training System (JTS) programme, which will see the replacement of the Hawk T1 & T2. We await confirmation of the procurement approach.

Ascent’s next stop is the Czech Republic, to see how Aero Vodochody is approaching 5th-generation fast jet training through its L39 Skyfox based training system.