Italy Retires MB-339 Trainer as Taiwan Plans for AT-3 Replacement
The Italian Air Force held a grand retirement ceremony for the MB-339A trainer aircraft yesterday (12th), which has served for 45 years as a vital training tool for many pilots. The M-345 will take over the training duties, marking a new chapter in Italy's flight training. Similarly, Taiwan's AT-3 trainer, in service since 1984, is also over 40 years old, with the Air Force planning a phased retirement, although specific timelines are yet to be confirmed.
During Italy's retirement ceremony, a flypast featuring both aircraft types was conducted, symbolically bidding farewell to the T-339A. Notably, the upgraded MB-339PAN will continue to serve until the new T-346 replaces it, while Taiwan's AT-3 has also been used by the 'Thunder Tigers' aerobatic team.
