Tecnam has delivered the first Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft to the Flight Academy of South Texas as the newly established training academy expands its operations in the United States.

The academy, which opened in January 2026, currently has 20 enrolled students and plans to expand its fleet with an additional five P-Mentor aircraft to support anticipated growth.

According to Tecnam, the P-Mentor will form the foundation of FAST’s flight training programme, providing students with access to a modern training platform equipped with advanced avionics and designed for operational efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.

FAST said the aircraft selection aligns with its objective of providing accessible and contemporary flight training within South Texas while supporting broader participation in aviation careers.

Fernanda Whitley said the academy was founded by her father with the aim of encouraging greater participation in aviation, particularly among women and young people within the local community.

“Our goal became larger than simply supporting one aspiring aviator,” Whitley stated. “We realised there was an opportunity to open doors for young people throughout the community to explore aviation.”

Walter Da Costa said the partnership reflects Tecnam’s ongoing focus on supporting modern flight training environments and expanding access to aviation careers.

The P-Mentor has become an increasingly visible aircraft within the global ab initio training market, with operators adopting the platform for its combination of digital cockpit systems, operational economy, and suitability for structured pilot training programmes.

FAST stated that its training model also includes the use of advanced flight simulation devices and personalised instruction as part of its broader aviation education strategy.