Hispano HA-200 Saeta

Created in the mid-1950’s by a Spanish aviation engineering team led by German expatriate designer Willy Messerschmitt, the Hispano HA-200 Saeta is a tandem seat, all metal, low-wing monoplane powered by twin Turbomeca Marboré II F3 turbojet engines.  Conceived as a jet familiarization trainer, the aircraft proved to be a capable design with a somewhat problematic fuel system that occasionally caused them to blow up in mid-air. With its difficulties ironed out, the Saeta proved to be a versatile airframe. During the 1960’s the aircraft was modified for use in a close air support/ground attack role.

The museum’s Saeta was assigned to the 203 squadron Spanish Air Force. It was imported into the United States in the 1980s for civilian use.  Acquired from a private owner in Tucson Arizona, March Field Air Museum staff members brought the aircraft to the museum in 2024 where it is in the process of being restored to its Spanish Air Force livery.

Tail Number: N390WW

SPECIFICATIONS

Manufacturer: Hispano Aviacion

Year: 1965

Model: HA-200A Saeta

Crew: 2

Max T/O Weight: 7,937 lb.

Span: 34 ft. 2in.

Length: 29 ft. 5 in.

Height: 9 ft. 4in.

Maximum Speed: 429 mph

Cruise Speed: 370 mph

Rate of Climb: 3,345 ft/min

Power Plant: 2 x Turbomeca Marboré II F3 turbojet, 1,057 lbs. thrust each engine

Range: 932 mi

Service Ceiling: 42,651 ft.