DINFIA IA 45
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1950s |
| Headquarters | Argentina |
The DINFIA IA 45 Querandi was a light transport aircraft from Argentina in the 1950s, featuring twin engines and developed by DINFIA.
Development
Conceived as a twin-engine light transport intended for private operators and air taxi applications, the IA 45 initiative commenced in 1954, experienced a halt in 1955, and recommenced in 1956. This all-metal high-wing monoplane incorporated an elevated rear fuselage design, dual vertical stabilizers with rudders, retractable tricycle landing gear, and two piston engines arranged in a pusher configuration. The initial prototype, equipped with Lycoming O-320 engines and accommodating five passengers, took its maiden flight on 23 September 1957 but lacked sufficient power. A subsequent prototype, upgraded with Lycoming O-360 engines and expanded to six seats, first flew on 15 November 1960.
Despite these enhancements, Argentine air taxi operators preferred American imports such as the Piper Apache and Aero Commander 500, which limited domestic demand. As a result, production ended in 1962 after only two prototypes were built. DINFIA continued to operate the aircraft until around 1966–1967 before they were dismantled.
Variants
- IA 45
- Initial prototype powered by two Avco Lycoming O-320 engines, seating five passengers; first flight occurred in 1957.
- IA 45B
- Enhanced model featuring two Lycoming O-360 engines and six seats; first flown in 1960.
References
- Notes
- Bibliography
- The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Aircraft (Part Work 1982-1985), 1985, Orbis Publishing
- Magnusson, Michael. "FMA: from 1945: The Story of Fabrica Militar de Aviones, Argentina: Part 9." Air-Britain Archive, Winter 2009, pp. 149–155.
- Taylor, John W. R., ed. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1961–62. London: Sampson Low, Marston & Company, 1961.