1. Introduction
Lately, I’ve been flying a lot with military training aircraft. After the SIAI-Marchetti SF-260, the Caproni Vizzola J.22 Ventura, and the Lockheed T-33, today I am trying a new and exciting aircraft: the Hispano HA-200 from Spain. Aerodynamically and historically, it can be compared to the T-33, but it follows a completely different trainer philosophy.
2. Historical Background
The Hispano HA-200 was developed during a period when Spanish aviation was strongly influenced by the political context of Franco’s regime. After World War II, Willy Messerschmitt emigrated to Spain, where he continued his aircraft development. He had previously designed the legendary Bf 108, Bf 109, the Me 262 jet fighter, and the Me 163 Komet rocket aircraft – all aircraft that left a lasting mark on aviation history.
While the Bf 108 and Bf 109 were classic propeller aircraft, the Me 262 was the first operational jet, and the Me 163 Komet was an extreme experimental design for high speed and climb performance, all these projects reflect Messerschmitt’s innovative spirit. In Spain, Franco’s regime benefited from his expertise to modernize its air force. The HA-200 was the result: a trainer aircraft, agile, controllable, and powerful enough for advanced flight training.
The aircraft I am flying today is a neutral factory version without military markings, showing pure engineering work, independent of political symbolism.
3. The Model in MSFS
In the simulator, the HA-200 appears as an aerodynamically conservative aircraft with trapezoid wings and a generously glazed cockpit under a full-vision canopy. Compared to the Lockheed T-33 (takeoff weight ~5,350 kg), the HA-200 is a lightweight at roughly 2,500 kg. It is slower in maximum speed but more agile and responsive. The cockpit is clear, with well-arranged instruments and excellent all-around visibility, making intuitive flying easy.
Flight Characteristics (MSFS 2020)
All characteristics below refer specifically to the MSFS 2020 model:
Lightness: reacts directly to control inputs.
Turning behavior: stable and controllable.
Climb: modest but solid.
Trapezoid wings: provide predictable aerodynamic stability.
4. The Flight Albacete – Ibiza
Takeoff & Climb
Even at takeoff, vigilance is required. The HA-200 feels sluggish and slow initially, so a shallow climb angle is recommended. Landing gear and flaps should be retracted quickly, and speed must be built up before climbing steeper or making turns. The takeoff power of the engines is time-limited; if speed drops too low, the aircraft tends to roll left.
Aerobatics
At sufficient altitude, the HA-200 is well controllable. Rolls can be flown precisely. Loops require careful speed and momentum: the aircraft barely reaches the apex, and recovering afterwards can be tricky.
Approach & Landing
Landing was straightforward. Turns in the traffic pattern reduce speed significantly, so adding a bit of thrust helps. Dive brakes can correct speed right before touchdown. The aircraft settles safely and smoothly.
On the ground, the HA-200 has a large turning radius if you do not assist with differential braking. Engine shutdown is simple and easy to manage.
Flight Route
Departure: Albacete Airport (Aeropuerto de Albacete-Los Llanos, IATA: ABC, ICAO: LEAB)
Destination: Ibiza Airport
The route itself was secondary for this flight but provided a good framework to test takeoff, climb, cruise, and landing.
5. Conclusion
The HA-200 is a solid aircraft with character. It should be flown within its design limits, keeping in mind that the engines are not oversized like modern trainers.
Remarkably, the small Mabore engines are very economical – the fear of running out of fuel quickly is much less than with other aircraft of the same era. The instrumentation is sparse, reflecting the original design: it is a pure VFR aircraft without any unnecessary complexity. Pilots seeking direct contact with the aircraft will find a very authentic and instructive flying experience.
