It looks as if it should be a flying boat, judging from what of the forward fuselage can be discerned in the photograph, but the lack of any sign of floats under the wing suggests otherwise.
Hi fabolousfour
She is indeed named Soim and from Romania. The LIA-88 Soim was developed by IAv Bacău (Intreprinderea de Avioance Bacău) in co-operation with the local Technical Aviation High School.
Only limited testing took place around 1983/1984. She ended her days in the shade of the trees depicted. Wonder whether she still exists.
I think I'm far away from having solved that mystery, Walter.
LIA-88 has never appeared during my search and until now I have never heard (read!) of it. It is just that it seemed to me that the retouched flag on the tail looked like a Romanian one and the IAR-99 (Soim!) is one of the few European jet trainers still active. So, my guess was just combining both clues.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.