Zlín Z-143
ZLIN AERO · Czech Republic · first flew 1992 · light aircraft
The Zlín Z-143 is a Czech single-engine light trainer and touring aircraft developed as a modernised successor to the Z-142, featuring an all-metal low-wing airframe suitable for ab initio and advanced instruction.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Low-wing all-metal monoplane trainer
- Single piston engine, fixed or retractable undercarriage
- Successor to the Z-142 with updated airframe
Distinguish from the Z-142 by the slightly larger airframe and more angular cowling; the low wing and tandem or side-by-side seating with bubble canopy are hallmarks of the type.
Specifications
- The Zlín Z-143 has a length of 8 m (26 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 9.2 m (30 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 235 km/h (146 mph).
- Typical crew: 1–2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Produced by ZLIN AERO in the early 1990s following Czechoslovakia's transition to market economy, the Z-143 represented an evolutionary step in the long Zlín trainer lineage. The type retained the characteristic Czech trainer silhouette while incorporating improved systems and powerplant options.
Variants
The Z-143 was offered with fixed and retractable landing gear configurations and differing engine fits, including versions marketed as the Z-143L and Z-143LSi.
Where you'll see it
Operated primarily by Czech and Slovak flying clubs and training organisations, with small numbers exported to European operators.
Related aircraft
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