Avia B-634

The Avia B-634, produced by the Czech manufacturer Avia, entered service in the early 1990s as a versatile light transport and training aircraft. Developed from the earlier B-532 and B-533 series, the B-634 incorporated a modern low‑wing monoplane layout, a strengthened composite fuselage and an upgraded Lycoming IO‑540‑D4A5 six‑cylinder engine delivering 300 hp. Its retractable tricycle landing gear, fully faired wing tips and a glass‑cockpit with Garmin G500 avionics gave pilots a contemporary flight‑deck while retaining straightforward handling characteristics.

The aircraft was primarily marketed to flight schools, aero clubs and small charter operators throughout Central and Eastern Europe. Its 1,200 km range, cruise speed of 260 km/h and capacity for up to four occupants made it popular for multi‑engine training, liaison duties and light cargo missions. Avia produced roughly 120 units before switching to newer models in the late 2000s.

The B-634’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between Soviet‑era trainers and Western‑style general aviation aircraft in the post‑Cold‑War era. It demonstrated Avia’s ability to blend proven mechanical reliability with modern avionics, helping to modernise regional pilot training programs and sustain the Czech general‑aviation industry.