Fouga Cm.170 Magister

Twin Jet

The Fouga CM.170 Magister holds the distinction of being the world's first purpose-built jet trainer to enter widespread service, flying its maiden flight in 1952 and entering French Air Force service in 1956. Designed by Établissements Fouga with its distinctive V-tail and side-by-side seating, the Magister became the standard jet trainer for France and was exported to over 20 air forces worldwide, with more than 900 aircraft produced through 1969. Its twin Turbomeca Marboré turbojets and docile handling characteristics made it an ideal transition aircraft for pilots moving from piston trainers to operational jets during the Cold War era. The type saw combat service in several conflicts including the Six-Day War, where Israeli Magisters flew ground-attack missions, and in various African conflicts through the 1970s and 1980s. Its relatively low operating costs and forgiving flight characteristics led to a robust second life on the civilian warbird circuit, particularly in the United States, where former military examples have been restored and operated by private owners and aerobatic performers. The aircraft's performance envelope includes a maximum speed of 444 knots and a service ceiling around 36,000 feet, impressive for a trainer of its era. Today the Magister remains a sought-after warbird for its historical significance as the progenitor of the modern jet trainer lineage and its elegant French design. SkyMeter has tracked 10 flights across 2 airframes and 2 operators, with MALDONADO ALFRED the largest observed operator.