2024 was a record year for Aero Vodochody. The company achieved its highest revenues in modern history, successfully launched the new L-39 Skyfox advanced jet trainer, and expanded cooperation with major international partners. We spoke with President and Chairman of the Board Viktor Sotona about Aero’s strategic plans, challenges, and future ambitions.
Mr. President, Aero recorded its best results in modern history last year. What’s behind this success?
Without a doubt, it’s the consistent implementation of the strategy we defined after the ownership change in 2021. It stands on three pillars: a return to our own product — the L-39 Skyfox aircraft, development of aerostructures cooperation programs, and building strong customer relationships. The year 2024 was a turning point. We achieved over CZK 6 billion in revenues, adjusted EBITDA increased to CZK 821 million, and net profit exceeded CZK 100 million — all without subsidies, purely through commercial performance. These are figures that clearly demonstrate Aero is back on the right track.
Your financial plan for this year anticipates further growth. What specific goals have you set for 2025?
We’ve set truly ambitious goals. We anticipate a 50% increase in EBITDA — a very significant rise. At the same time, we are meeting our production plan and reducing inventory by 15%. All of this with a continuous focus on process efficiency.
What does it mean to you personally to lead such a historically significant company?
It’s a great honor, but also a responsibility. Aero has more than 100 years of history, during which it has trained five generations of elite pilots around the world. That’s a big commitment. At the same time, it’s a challenge — the aviation industry is undergoing enormous changes, and we have to ensure that Aero remains relevant for future generations. When I see that we are succeeding in returning Czech aerospace to the global stage, it gives me real hope.
The L-39 Skyfox is now your main product line. How does it differ from its predecessors and what new features does it bring?
Skyfox is a modern successor to the legendary Albatros, but with significantly improved capabilities. It’s a fully capable tactical training aircraft with excellent flight characteristics, modern avionics, and an integrated training system. Crucially, Skyfox is not just an aircraft — it’s a complete platform for training pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft, including those transitioning to the F-35.
You put strong emphasis on integrating the aircraft into a broader training ecosystem. What exactly does that mean?
Modern flight training today requires much more than just a quality aircraft. Efficiency is key — it’s no longer only about flight hours but how that time is used. That’s why we offer Skyfox as part of a comprehensive package that includes ground simulators, a Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) training system, and other tools. With this setup, a pilot can train far more skills in one flight hour than before, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing training costs.
What would you consider Skyfox’s greatest competitive advantage compared to similar platforms on the market?
It’s the combination of several factors. Our core added value lies in our ability to operate in both the Western and Eastern standards. Traditionally, there have been two main approaches to pilot training — NATO and the Eastern bloc — differing in avionics, training methods, and technician workflows. Our aircraft allows training under both standards and enables smooth transitions between them. That’s a unique offering.
Other advantages include platform modularity, low operational costs, and of course the reliability that Czech aircraft have always been known for. Last but not least, we offer a comprehensive support package and the ability to customize the product to meet specific customer needs.
How are the first Skyfox units performing with customers? Have you received operational feedback yet?
Yes — and it’s very positive. In 2024, we completed delivery of 12 aircraft to Vietnam, where they’ve already logged hundreds of flight hours under demanding climatic conditions. Pilots especially appreciate the aircraft’s stability, its controllability at higher altitudes, and the modern avionics that ensure maximum safety even in poor weather.
We also delivered the first two aircraft to the Flight Training Centre (LOM PRAHA) and three aircraft to the Hungarian Air Force. Feedback has been excellent — instructor pilots particularly praise the quick control stick response, excellent acceleration and deceleration, and intuitive handling.
How important is your domestic customer — LOM PRAHA?
It’s absolutely fundamental. The delivery of the first two aircraft to LOM PRAHA is a major milestone not just for Aero and the company itself, but for the entire Czech aerospace industry. It’s a massive leap forward in the training capabilities of the Czech Air Force, which previously did not have access to such a sophisticated training platform.
The contract includes four aircraft in total, with the remaining two to be delivered in the third quarter of this year. LOM PRAHA also holds an option for an additional four aircraft, which I believe they will exercise in the future.
Do you plan deeper cooperation with LOM PRAHA?
Definitely. We are already working together to develop training systems, for example the LVC project which connects live flights with virtual environments. This system offers effective and realistic training at lower costs — exactly what today’s air forces need.
In July, we plan to sign a comprehensive support agreement with LOM PRAHA covering the entire fleet of four L-39 Skyfox aircraft. The agreement will run through the end of 2028 and includes integrated logistical support for both planned and unplanned maintenance. Its goal is to maximize aircraft availability — a key requirement for meeting training targets.
You’ve recently announced the launch of the Skycare program. What is it about?
Skycare is our latest next-generation customer support program, designed to maximize fleet availability and ensure that military operators can focus on what matters most — fulfilling missions. It’s a comprehensive solution built on three pillars.
The first is integrated logistics support covering both planned and unplanned maintenance for the L-39 Skyfox and all its subsystems. The second is comprehensive engineering and service support provided directly by Aero specialists. The third is a digitally enhanced, specialized customer care approach.
What makes this approach innovative?
Skycare redefines our maintenance and support approach. It works on a “pay-by-the-hour” model, giving customers full predictability over their fleet’s operational costs. That’s a major advantage for military operators who need to plan their budgets with precision.
How much interest is there in this service among current customers?
As I mentioned, in July we’ll sign a similar contract with LOM PRAHA. A significant agreement is also being prepared with the Hungarian Air Force, covering their fleet of 12 aircraft. In this five-year agreement, we guarantee aircraft availability with a target rate exceeding 80%. That’s a key benchmark in today’s air forces.
Skycare is no longer just a complementary service — it’s becoming an integral part of our product offering and a major competitive advantage.
Which markets and customers are you focusing on currently?
We are currently negotiating with customers in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. We are seeing increased interest from countries looking to replace aging aircraft such as the Hawk, Alpha Jet, or older L-39 versions. There is also strong potential in countries that need to boost border security or conduct reconnaissance — areas where Skyfox’s versatility as a multirole platform is highly valuable.
Last year, you achieved important certifications. What do they mean for Aero?
They represent a key milestone. The aircraft was certified by the Czech Ministry of Defence’s Military Aviation Oversight Office under EMACC — the European Military Airworthiness Certification Criteria. It is the first fully Czech aircraft to meet these demanding standards. Additionally, we obtained certification for production, maintenance, and training for the Hungarian market. Both certifications strengthen our position among NATO-aligned customers.
Skyfox became part of the NATO Flight Training Europe (NFTE) program in Hungary. What are your ambitions in allied training?
Participation in NFTE is extremely important to us. The Hungarian Air Force has incorporated Skyfox into its training program, where our aircraft plays a central role. With EMACC certification, it is fully eligible for allied training, and its modularity allows it to be adapted to the specific requirements of different nations.
We see the opportunity to become a reference platform for integrated European training. We are already in concrete talks with representatives of several countries about shared training capacities — whether in the form of joint centers, pilot rotations, or simulator system interoperability.
What kind of industrial cooperation do you envision in these European efforts?
Training is only part of the story. We also offer opportunities for local industry involvement — in operations, maintenance, servicing, or component supply. We take an individual approach with each country, knowing that a strong domestic component is often key to success. We are a flexible partner capable of adapting both the product and the entire supply model to the customer’s strategic priorities.
Besides the aircraft itself, the aerostructures segment is also growing. Which programs are most important here?
This segment is very important to us — in 2024, it brought in CZK 1.39 billion in revenue, representing 23% of our total. The most important program is the Airbus A220, where we increased production of leading edges by 80%, and plan to triple it within three years.
Another key program is the Embraer C-390 Millennium. We signed a crucial amendment that will quadruple production over six years. We are one of the key partners in the program, manufacturing rear fuselage sections, ramps, doors, and leading edges.
At IDET you announced cooperation with Lockheed Martin. Can you tell us more about that?
We signed an agreement to cooperate on the development and production of the Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod — an advanced ISR pod using next-generation composite materials. This gives us access to the global defense supply chain and proves that Aero possesses the know-how and technological maturity to take part in the world’s most advanced programs.
You mention optimization and digitalization as key goals for 2025. What specific steps are you taking?
Digitalization is a key priority. This year, we’re preparing a smooth transition to a new ERP and PLM system, which we plan to implement in 2026. We’re now focusing on strengthening quality management as a foundation for this shift.
Last year, we deployed the IFS ERP system, which covers production, logistics, finance, and maintenance. We also implemented Siemens Teamcenter PLM for product lifecycle management. This enables fully digital control of development and production — from design to operation.
We’ve also modernized our machinery — replacing an older machining center with the new STARRAG STC 800 X, which machines aluminum alloy parts more efficiently and at higher quality. We’ve also acquired a new QUINTUS QFC 1×2-800 fluid forming press, which is significantly more productive and cost-effective to operate and maintain.
What results do you expect from these investments?
We expect a significant reduction in labor intensity across all programs. For the L-39 Skyfox, we aim for a 10% reduction, and 5% for the AST program. Thanks to improved quality processes, we expect cost savings of up to 10%. All of these efforts aim to enhance efficiency, quality, and competitiveness.
In today’s market, attracting and retaining skilled workers is a major challenge. How is Aero addressing this?
People are absolutely crucial to us. In 2024, we increased wages by an average of 5%, introduced higher bonuses, and improved working conditions. This year, we are focusing on defining career paths for talented employees and implementing Kaizen principles as part of daily operations.
We also prioritize cooperation with technical universities and schools — offering internships, mentoring, thesis supervision, and participation in real projects. We want to attract young talent and show them that a career in aerospace can be exciting and meaningful.
Are you planning additional activities in this area?
Yes — this year, we are focusing on ensuring position coverage and succession planning for key roles. This is essential for long-term stability and company growth. We also plan to continue integrating Kaizen principles into our corporate culture — aiming for continuous improvement and innovation.
What is your long-term vision for Aero?
I see Aero as a respected European player with a strong proprietary product line, capable of developing, manufacturing, and certifying next-generation aircraft. We want to be not just an aircraft supplier but a strategic partner in training, technology, simulation, and operational support.
Our goal is to define and approve the product portfolio through 2030 so that we can prepare for it systematically. We also want to continue strengthening cooperation in aerostructures and expanding our international presence.
Which values are most important to you in fulfilling this vision?
We are guided by four core values. We are creative — when things don’t go as planned, we write a better plan. Aero has always sought new paths rather than blindly following others. We remain competent — our team consists of people who know what they’re doing. And if we don’t know something? We learn it faster than a plane can take off. We are efficient— we don’t waste fuel, time, or energy. And finally, we are reliable — Aero doesn’t compromise. Whether it’s our aircraft or our work — what we promise, we deliver.
Looking back on your leadership so far, what are you most proud of?
Of our success — which is the result of the entire Aero team’s effort. If I had to highlight one thing, it would be the return of confidence. Aero believes in itself again. After years of uncertainty and stagnation, we’ve once again developed, built, certified, and sold a Czech military aircraft — and it’s gaining recognition at home and abroad.
Today, we have a profitable company, a modern product, growing demand, and a strategic vision. And most importantly — we’ve regained respect. I believe that’s the most significant step forward.
Interview by: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: Aero Vodochody AEROSPACE
