FMA I.Ae.20 El Boyero
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1939 |
| Headquarters | Argentina |
| Products | Aircraft manufacturing |
The FMA 20 El Boyero ("Shepherd") was an Argentine light utility airplane developed during the 1940s. It was designed as a conventional high-wing monoplane with strut bracing and fixed tailskid landing gear, accommodating two occupants seated side-by-side within an enclosed cockpit.
Development
Design work commenced in 1939 at the Fábrica Argentina de Aviones (FMA) to create a trainer aircraft for local flying clubs. Two prototypes were constructed: the initial model took flight on 2 November 1940, equipped with a Continental A50 flat-four engine, followed by a second prototype early the subsequent year. The El Boyero featured a single-engine tractor configuration with a high-wing supported by struts and fixed tailwheel undercarriage. Its fuselage was built from steel tubing covered in fabric, while the wings incorporated spruce spars combined with aluminum alloy ribs and were supported by steel tube struts. The cockpit layout provided dual controls for pilot and instructor seated side-by-side.
With FMA prioritizing military aircraft production throughout World War II, manufacturing rights were sold to the private company Sfreddo & Paolini; however, material shortages prevented them from commencing production. Post-war, these rights were transferred to Petrolini Hermanos, who secured a government contract for 160 units and began deliveries in January 1949.
Operational history
Equipped with either Continental A65-8 or Continental A-75 engines—the latter variant known as Ae20B—the El Boyero was supplied to Argentine flying clubs and military units, serving roles such as observation and liaison. Petrolini encountered considerable difficulties obtaining materials, which led to production halting in 1951 after completing 130 aircraft.
Operators
See also
References
- Bridgeman, Leonard. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1950-1951 edition New York: The Mcgraw.Hill Book Company, Inc, 1950 (No ISBN)