Ikarbus
Ikarus Kurir
The Ikarus Kurir is a small high‑wing monoplane built in the former Yugoslavia by the aircraft factory Ikarbus of Zemun. Its development began in 1955 as a response to the Yugoslav Air Force’s need for a rugged, low‑cost liaison and training aircraft that could operate from unimproved fields. The prototype flew on 20 April 1956 and a total of 158 units were produced between 1957 and 1965, serving both military units and civilian aero clubs.
The Kurir is powered by a Lycoming O‑320‑B2B engine delivering 150 hp, driving a two‑blade propeller. Its all‑metal construction, fixed tailwheel undercarriage and large flaps give it excellent short‑take‑off and landing capability, while the spacious cabin can accommodate a pilot, an observer or a stretcher‑patient and a small cargo load. Simple, reliable systems and a low stall speed of 55 km/h make it well suited for communications, artillery spotting, agricultural spraying and pilot training.
In aviation history the Kurir is significant as one of the few domestically designed Yugoslav utilitarian aircraft that achieved widespread service, demonstrating the capability of the post‑war Balkan aviation industry to produce functional, export‑able aircraft for both military and civilian markets.
The Kurir is powered by a Lycoming O‑320‑B2B engine delivering 150 hp, driving a two‑blade propeller. Its all‑metal construction, fixed tailwheel undercarriage and large flaps give it excellent short‑take‑off and landing capability, while the spacious cabin can accommodate a pilot, an observer or a stretcher‑patient and a small cargo load. Simple, reliable systems and a low stall speed of 55 km/h make it well suited for communications, artillery spotting, agricultural spraying and pilot training.
In aviation history the Kurir is significant as one of the few domestically designed Yugoslav utilitarian aircraft that achieved widespread service, demonstrating the capability of the post‑war Balkan aviation industry to produce functional, export‑able aircraft for both military and civilian markets.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1955
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Ikarbus
- Wikidata ID
- Q1361613