Algeria
Fernas 142
The Fernas 142 is a twin‑engine, medium‑range transport aircraft developed in the early 1990s by the Algerian state‑run aerospace firm Fernas Aviation. Conceived to reduce the country's dependence on foreign suppliers, the program began in 1988 under a government decree that ordered a domestically produced platform capable of both cargo and passenger missions. The first prototype flew on 12 June 1992, and after an extensive flight‑test campaign the aircraft entered service with the Algerian Air Force in 1995, later attracting limited export interest from neighboring North‑African air carriers.
Key features of the Fernas 142 include a high‑wing configuration, all‑metal semi‑monocoque airframe, and two turboprop Pratt & Whitney PW127 engines delivering 2,500 shp each. It can transport up to 22 tonnes of freight or 80 passengers over a range of 2,200 km, and incorporates modern Avionics Suite 4.0 with GPS‑based navigation, a glass cockpit, and a digital flight‑management system. Its rear cargo ramp and rear‑door loading system enable rapid turnaround on short, unpaved airfields.
The Fernas 142’s significance lies in demonstrating Algeria’s capacity to design and produce a competitive transport aircraft, fostering domestic aerospace skill development and contributing to regional connectivity during the post‑cold‑war era.
Key features of the Fernas 142 include a high‑wing configuration, all‑metal semi‑monocoque airframe, and two turboprop Pratt & Whitney PW127 engines delivering 2,500 shp each. It can transport up to 22 tonnes of freight or 80 passengers over a range of 2,200 km, and incorporates modern Avionics Suite 4.0 with GPS‑based navigation, a glass cockpit, and a digital flight‑management system. Its rear cargo ramp and rear‑door loading system enable rapid turnaround on short, unpaved airfields.
The Fernas 142’s significance lies in demonstrating Algeria’s capacity to design and produce a competitive transport aircraft, fostering domestic aerospace skill development and contributing to regional connectivity during the post‑cold‑war era.