Zlín Z-26

The Zlín Z‑26 is a Czechoslovakian two‑seat trainer and aerobatic aircraft first flown in 1947 and produced by the aircraft works of Karel Tomáš in the town of Zlín. Developed from the earlier Z‑25 Akrobat, the Z‑26 was designed to meet post‑war demand for a robust, low‑cost platform that could train pilots and demonstrate advanced maneuvers. Powered by a 105‑horsepower Walter Minor 4‑III air‑cooled engine, the low‑wing monoplane features an all‑metal tubular frame, fabric‑covered wings, and a fixed, tail‑wheel undercarriage. Its control surfaces are balanced and the aircraft incorporates a simple, robust linkage that gives it precise handling and high roll rates, making it ideal for aerobatic competition. Over 600 examples were built, serving with the Czechoslovak Air Force, civilian clubs, and export customers in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. The Z‑26’s durability and forgiving flight characteristics helped train a generation of pilots and contributed to the reputation of Czechoslovak aircraft manufacturing during the Cold War era. Its legacy endures through restored examples that still perform at airshows worldwide. Today the Z‑26 is displayed in several aviation museums and continues to inspire modern trainer designs with its emphasis on simplicity, reliability, and aerobatic capability.

Karel Tomáš

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification