ZLIN Z-181 "BASA"

The Zlin Z-181 was a Czechoslovakian training aircraft from the post-war period in the low wing design with a fixed landing gear in the classic configuration. The length of the aircraft was approximately 7.8 meters with a wingspan of approximately 10.6 meters. The drive, especially in the early ones, was provided by the Hirth HM 504 engine with power up to 100-105 HP. The machine did not have a permanent on-board armament. At the end of 1939, the German training aircraft entered mass production Bücker Bü-181 Bestmann, which turned out to be a very successful design, showing good aerodynamic properties, high level of flight safety and easy piloting. During World War II, it was widely used to train Luftwaffe pilots. After 1945, the production of this successful machine was continued by the Zlin plant in Czechoslovakia. About 180 aircraft of this type were created, designated as Zlin Z-181. They were used in the Czechoslovak civil aviation, especially in flying clubs, where they were used for basic, but often also advanced training.