PZL-101 Gawron
PZL Mielec · Poland · first flew 1958 · light aircraft
The PZL-101 Gawron (Rook) was a Polish high-wing utility and agricultural light aircraft derived from the Yakovlev Yak-12, built in substantial numbers to serve the needs of Polish agriculture and general aviation. Its simple, rugged construction suited the demanding operational environments of Polish farming cooperatives.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 9 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Polish high-wing utility monoplane
- Strut-braced straight wing
- Large cabin glazing for agricultural/liaison use
The high, strut-braced straight wing over a slab-sided fuselage with large cabin windows gives the Gawron a utilitarian appearance closely resembling its Yak-12 ancestor but with Polish detail refinements.
Specifications
- The PZL-101 Gawron has a length of 9 m (30 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 12.68 m (42 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 160 km/h (99 mph).
- Typical crew: 1-2 plus up to 3 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed at PZL Mielec as a Polonised evolution of the Soviet Yak-12 with local improvements, the Gawron entered service in 1958. Several hundred were produced over a lengthy production run, serving agricultural, ambulance, training, and liaison roles across the Eastern Bloc.
Variants
Produced in agricultural crop-duster and standard utility configurations; minor engine and equipment changes were made during the production run.
Where you'll see it
Widely used in Poland and exported to other Warsaw Pact and developing nations; served with Polish aero clubs and state agricultural aviation into the 1980s.
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