Aermacchi MB-326H brought on charge with the RAAF

The RAAF received its first Aermacchi MB-326H (Macchi) in October 1967. The aircraft were selected by the RAAF as replacements for the Vampire and Winjeel trainer in 1965. The Macchi was a two seat advanced pilot and lean-in-fighter trainer. It was a capable advance pilot training aircraft and considered a ‘delight to fly’.

The Macchi was the most produced post-WWII Italian military aircraft and the first Macchi flew in Italy in April 1967.

The RAAF’s Macchis were assembled in Australia from a mixture of Australian and Italian components by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation.

Deliveries of the Macchi were initially to Central Flying School, East Sale and No 2 Flying Training School, Pearce.

The aircraft were also used by the RAAF aerobatic team the Telstars (1967-8) and Roulettes (1970-1989).

To learn more, download this extract from Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force by David Richardson and Peter Wood.