Z 42

The Zlin Z 42, introduced by Czechoslovak manufacturer Zlin Aero in 1973, quickly became one of the most successful two‑seat trainer aircraft of the Cold War era. Developed from the earlier Z 26 family, the Z 42 was designed to meet both civilian sport‑flying and military basic‑training requirements. Its low‑wing monocoque construction uses aluminium alloy, giving a lightweight yet robust airframe and a maximum take‑off weight of 830 kg. Powered by a reliable 105 hp Lycoming O‑320 engine, the aircraft delivers a cruising speed of 210 km/h, a range of 800 km and a service ceiling of 4 500 m, making it suitable for aerobatic manoeuvres as well as cross‑country instruction. The cockpit features side‑by‑side seating, dual controls, and a bubble canopy that provides excellent visibility, a critical factor for trainee pilots. Over 1 200 units were built, serving air‑clubs, private owners and aeronautical schools across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Its forgiving handling, low operating costs, and simple maintenance have cemented the Z 42’s reputation as a versatile platform that helped shape modern general‑aviation training and kept the Zlin name prominent in the global aviation community today worldwide.

ZLIN AERO

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