Antonov
PZL M28
The PZL M28 Skytruck is a twin‑engine, high‑wing transport aircraft derived from the Soviet‑designed Antonov An‑28. Development began in the early 1970s, and in 1979 the design was transferred to Poland’s PZL‑Mielec for licensed production as the M28, featuring Western avionics and upgraded engines. Its first flight occurred in 1984 and production continued until 2015, delivering over 150 airframes to civil and military operators worldwide.
Key features include a reinforced airframe, fixed tricycle landing gear, and two turboprop engines – originally the PZL‑10S and later the more powerful Walter M601D – providing a cruise speed of 460 km/h and a range exceeding 1,500 km. Later variants incorporated glass cockpits and GPS navigation, improving situational awareness and reducing crew workload. The high wing, large cargo door, and short‑take‑off capability enable rapid loading of cargo, livestock, parachutists or stretchers from unprepared strips, mudflats or snowfields.
The M28’s versatility has made it a workhorse in austere environments, serving the Polish Air Force, UN peace‑keeping missions and charter operators across Africa, Asia and South America. Its blend of rugged simplicity and modern systems showcases the successful adaptation of a Soviet‑era design to contemporary utility aviation.
Key features include a reinforced airframe, fixed tricycle landing gear, and two turboprop engines – originally the PZL‑10S and later the more powerful Walter M601D – providing a cruise speed of 460 km/h and a range exceeding 1,500 km. Later variants incorporated glass cockpits and GPS navigation, improving situational awareness and reducing crew workload. The high wing, large cargo door, and short‑take‑off capability enable rapid loading of cargo, livestock, parachutists or stretchers from unprepared strips, mudflats or snowfields.
The M28’s versatility has made it a workhorse in austere environments, serving the Polish Air Force, UN peace‑keeping missions and charter operators across Africa, Asia and South America. Its blend of rugged simplicity and modern systems showcases the successful adaptation of a Soviet‑era design to contemporary utility aviation.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 13.1 metre
- Height
- 4.9 metre
- Mass
- 7500 kilogram
Performance
- Maximum Speed
- 132 knot
- Service Ceiling
- 7620 metre
- Range
- 1592 kilometre
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 200
- First Flight
- 1993
- Service Entry
- 1993
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Antonov
- Developer
- Antonov, PZL Mielec
- Engine
- PT6A-65B
- Operator
-
Nepal Venezuela Estonia Poland
- Wikidata ID
- Q1559612