Portugal’s LUS-222 light transport aircraft is targeted to fly for the first time in 2028, backed by a total program investment of about €220 million and public funding of just over €100 million. The twin-turboprop, high-wing design is intended to carry 19 passengers or up to 2 tonnes of cargo.
The aircraft is being developed as a civil-military platform by CEiiA, the Portuguese Air Force and Geosat, with industrial participation from EEA Aircraft & Maintenance and Brazil’s Akaer. The program includes a factory at Ponte de Sor, planned for output of 12 aircraft a year in one shift and 20 a year in two shifts.
Commercial positioning is centered on regional transport, freight and search-and-rescue missions, with a rear cargo door and short-field capability. The aircraft has also been presented as a candidate for operators in Europe, Africa and Latin America.