Alenia Aermacchi SF-260

The aerobatic trainer built for civilian and military instruction.

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Aermacchi SF260 © AlfvanBeem

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Overview

Alenia Aermacchi Italy ICAO: SF26 1964–Present $1.6 million

The SF-260 is a light piston trainer introduced in the 1960s. Known for its responsive handling, it has been used for aerobatics and military training. The aircraft remains widely operated.

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Textron Lycoming O-540
Engine type
Piston
Power
260 hp · 194 kW
Avionics
Collins TDR-9 transponder, Collins 20B VHF comm, Collins PN-101 compass.
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
3
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
23 ft 0 in  ·  7.00 m
Tail height
8 ft 6 in  ·  2.60 m
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
27 ft 5 in  ·  8.35 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
2,850 lb  ·  1,300 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
350 lb  ·  150 kg
Fuel capacity
60 gal · 200 L · 200 kg (AvGas)
Max cruise speed
178 kt  ·  205 mph  ·  330 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
74 kt  ·  85 mph  ·  137 km/h
Range
1,170 nm  ·  1,350 mi  ·  2,170 km
Fuel burn
31.87 nm/gal  ·  15.59 km/L
Ceiling
20,000 ft  ·  6,100 m
Rate of climb
1,791 ft/min  ·  9 m/s
Takeoff distance
280 ft  ·  80 m
Landing distance
270 ft  ·  80 m
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SF260 Marchettis.

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Operational Context

Alenia Aermacchi SF-260 — light trainer aircraft

The SF-260 first flew in 1964 and entered service soon afterward. It features a low-wing layout and retractable landing gear. The design emphasizes aerobatic capability and structural strength.

A piston engine producing approximately 260 horsepower powers the aircraft. Cruise speed approaches 175 knots (324 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 2,400 pounds (1,089 kg).

The SF-260 has been exported to numerous countries. Its agility and durability have supported decades of training use. The aircraft remains active in civilian and military roles.