Following 35 years of service, the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) formally retired its last remaining AMX A-11 ‘Ghibli’ light combat and reconnaissance aircraft from service on April 5, 2024. The Italian term ‘Ghibli’ derives from the hot dry wind that blows in North Africa. This historic occasion was marked with a formal ceremony and flypast at Istrana Air Base in Northern Italy home to the 51st Wing (51º Stormo) and the last remaining squadron operating the type; 132nd Squadron (132° Gruppo). A special marked AMX aircraft was presented marking the end of an era for this diminutive, robust and combat proven aircraft. Brazil now remains the only operator of the type. Ian Harding takes a look back at the operational service of this striking little fast jet.
