Brazil's Specialist in Gliders and Light Trainers
Aeromot — Aeronaves e Motores S.A. is a Brazilian aerospace manufacturer based in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul. Founded in the 1960s as an aircraft maintenance and overhaul company, Aeromot evolved into a manufacturer of its own designs, becoming best known internationally for the Ximango series of motor gliders — elegant, high-performance two-seat aircraft that found markets across Brazil, Europe, and North America.
Aeromot's product line reflects a consistent focus on the light aviation segment: gliders, motor gliders, and two-seat trainers built to high standards for both civil and military training markets. The company also holds the type certificate for the classic Paulistinha, one of Brazil's most historically significant light aircraft designs.
Aircraft Involved
AMT Paulistinha
The AMT Paulistinha is Aeromot's continuation of the legendary Paulistinha lineage — originally designed by the Companhia Aeronáutica Paulista (CAP) in the 1940s and one of the most iconic Brazilian light aircraft ever produced. Aeromot acquired the type certificate and produced 45 aircraft, preserving this important piece of Brazilian aviation heritage. The Paulistinha is a two-seat trainer of classic high-wing configuration, beloved by Brazilian aviators for its docile handling and historical significance.
AMT-100 Ximango (1986)
The AMT-100 Ximango was Aeromot's first motor glider design, making its first flight in 1986. A two-seat, side-by-side motor glider of composite construction, the AMT-100 established the Ximango as a serious contender in the international motor glider market. 44 aircraft were built, finding customers in Brazil and export markets. The Ximango's name — a Brazilian bird of prey — reflects the aircraft's soaring capability and elegant lines.
AMT-200 Ximango (1993)
The AMT-200 Ximango first flew in 1993 and became the most successful variant in the series, with 126 aircraft produced. An evolution of the AMT-100 with improved performance and systems, the AMT-200 achieved FAA certification and was exported to the United States and Europe, where it competed directly with European motor glider manufacturers. Its composite airframe, retractable undercarriage, and efficient engine installation made it a benchmark in its class.
AMT-300 Turbo Ximango Shark (1997)
The AMT-300 Turbo Ximango Shark first flew in 1997 as a higher-performance development of the Ximango family, featuring a turbocharged engine installation for improved high-altitude and hot-and-high performance. 7 aircraft were built, making it the rarest of the Ximango variants. The Shark designation reflects its more aggressive performance envelope compared to the standard Ximango series.
AMT-600 Guri (1999)
The AMT-600 Guri first flew in 1999 and represents Aeromot's move into the powered trainer segment. A two-seat, low-wing trainer aircraft, the Guri was designed to serve as a primary trainer for Brazilian civil and military aviation schools. 25 aircraft were built. The Guri's name references the Guri reservoir in Venezuela — a nod to the broader South American aviation community the aircraft was designed to serve.
Aeromot Aircraft — Production Summary
| Model | First Flight | Units Built | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMT Paulistinha | — | 45 | Two-seat trainer aircraft |
| AMT-100 Ximango | 1986 | 44 | Two-seat motor glider |
| AMT-200 Ximango | 1993 | 126 | Two-seat motor glider |
| AMT-300 Turbo Ximango Shark | 1997 | 7 | Two-seat motor glider |
| AMT-600 Guri | 1999 | 25 | Two-seat low-wing trainer |
Total documented production: 247 aircraft
Legacy
Aeromot's contribution to Brazilian aviation is defined by quality over quantity. The Ximango series in particular achieved something rare for a South American manufacturer — genuine international market penetration in a segment dominated by European producers. The AMT-200's FAA certification and US market presence demonstrated that Brazilian aerospace engineering could compete at the highest level.
The preservation of the Paulistinha type certificate also reflects Aeromot's commitment to Brazilian aviation heritage — ensuring that one of the country's most beloved classic designs remained in production and airworthy.
Primary-source documentation covering Aeromot and the broader Brazilian aviation manufacturing heritage is held in the Online Aviation Library archive as part of the Brazilian Aviation collection.
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