Supported by the Australian Government, design work began in the mid-1960s, and it made its maiden flight on 23 July 1971. Despite some export sales and commercial operations, sales were not as sufficient and production stopped in 1985. The twin-turboprop, high-wing aircraft has a retractable gear and came in two variants: the initial N22, followed by the stretched N24. The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, the Australian Army and the Australian Customs Service were major users. The Australian military withdrew almost all of its remaining Nomads amid reports of safety concerns during the 1990s. By the 21st century, only a handful of aircraft remained in regular use in Australia. GippsAero acquired its type certificate in 2008 and plans to produce it again as the GA18. For more information, click here. N22B N22 Searchmaster N24A
