Ideal for Beginners
Smooth and predictable flight characteristics support initial skill development.
Fuel Efficient
Affordable flight time that helps students manage training budgets.
Modern Avionics
Reliable instrumentation designed to prepare students for advanced aircraft.
Safe and Stable
Excellent visibility and stability for early flight training.
Technical Specifications
Engine
Powered by the Lycoming O-320 D2A 160 hp training‑class engine, the Symphony SA160 delivers reliable performance ideal for student pilots and consistent day‑to‑day flight training operations.
Cruise Speed
Optimized for basic training missions, the SA160 offers stable cruise performance of 128 Knots at 74% power that supports upper‑air exercises, circuit work, and introductory navigation flights.
Fuel Capacity
Configured for local training flights and short cross‑country missions, the aircraft’s fuel system provides ample endurance for structured lesson planning and efficient scheduling with it 30 gallons usable fuel capacity.
Range
Well‑suited for foundational navigation exercises, the SA160 offers the range required for dual and solo cross‑country training within typical PPL and early CPL programs.
Avionics
Equipped with Garmin GNC 420 and GNS 430, Autopilot and the Vision Microsystems V1000 engine monitoring, this cockpit layout supports early‑stage training, helping new pilots develop strong situational awareness and essential instrument‑scanning skills.
Seats
A two‑seat configuration designed specifically for instructor–student training, offering excellent visibility, communication, and ergonomics during flight lessons.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the Symphony a suitable trainer for new students
The Symphony SA160 is an excellent training aircraft for beginners. Its stable handling, predictable flight characteristics, and robust Canadian/German design make it highly suitable for students completing their first lessons. The aircraft’s composite structure and modern safety features contribute to a reliable and confidence‑building training platform.
What type of training is the Symphony used for
The SA160 is used for a wide range of ab‑initio and intermediate training, including:
• Initial flight lessons and upper air exercises
• Circuit work and takeoff/landing practice
• Navigation training
• Radio procedures and basic instrument familiarization
Its versatility allows students to progress smoothly from early lessons to more advanced flight exercises.
How many flight hours will I spend in the Symphony 160
Most students complete the majority of their Private Pilot Licence (PPL) training in the SA160. Depending on your program and progression, you can expect to fly between 35–55 hours in this aircraft during your PPL, with additional time possible during hour‑building or early CPL training.
Is the cockpit similar to more advanced aircraft
Yes. The Symphony SA160 features a clean, ergonomic cockpit layout with avionics that mirror what students will encounter in more complex aircraft. Its instrumentation helps new pilots develop strong situational awareness and cockpit management skills that transfer directly to advanced training platforms.
Is this aircraft used in winter training
Absolutely. The SA160 was designed in Germany, built and certified in Canada, making it well‑suited for winter operations. With proper pre‑heating procedures and cold‑weather protocols, the aircraft performs reliably throughout the winter season, allowing students to continue training year‑round.
Train on the Symphony SA160
A reliable, modern training aircraft for early‑stage pilot development
The Symphony SA160 is a highly efficient, easy‑to‑handle training aircraft ideal for foundational flight training at International Pilot Academy. Designed with modern avionics, stable flight characteristics, and predictable handling, the SA160 gives new pilots the perfect platform to build strong skills and confidence from their very first lessons.
Its responsive controls and excellent visibility support effective learning in the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and early Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) stages, while instructors benefit from a cockpit layout that enables clear, structured, and safety‑focused instruction. The SA160 also offers cost‑effective flight training, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a strong, efficient start to their aviation journey.