ZLIN Z-42M

The Zlin Z-42 is a modern Czech (previously: Czechoslovak) training and sport-tourist passenger plane. The machine was built in a low wing configuration with a classic tail. The drive is provided - in the Z-42 version - by a single Avia M 137A engine with a capacity of 180 HP. A prototype flight took place in 1967, and serial production started in 1970. The Zlin Z-42 was developed and produced at the Moravan Otrokovice aviation plant (more popular name: Zlin Aircraft). The machine was created as a successor to the very successful Zlin Trener training plane. Compared to its predecessor, the aerodynamics of the new machine were refined, more modern avionics were used and the cabin was completely redesigned, where the student and the instructor were now sitting next to each other. In the course of serial production, three main development variants of this aircraft were created: the Z-42 (the first version produced in series), the Z-42L (the version powered by the Lycoming engine) and the Z-42M (version with the Avia M 137AZ engine and a new propeller). A far-reaching modernization of the Z-42 machines is the Z-142 aircraft with a new 210 HP engine.