Mexico receives first C-27J transport

Photo Alenia Aeronautica

20/09/11 By Craig Hoyle SOURCE:Flight International

Mexico's first newly-acquired Alenia Aeronautica C-27J has made its public debut at an event to commemorate the nation's independence.

Sporting a white colour scheme, the tactical transport was accompanied by one of the Italian manufacturer's own C-27J Spartans during the 16 September flight over Mexico City.

Acquired under a roughly $200 million contract signed in July, the aircraft is the first of four C27Js that will be delivered to Mexico by late 2012.

Alenia Aeronautica expects the nation's air force to operate the type for tasks including troop and equipment transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue amnd humanitarian assistance missions.