Z 143 L
Moravan (Zlin) · Czech Republic · first flew 1992 · light aircraft
The Zlin Z 143 L is a Czech single-engine, four-seat light touring and training aircraft developed from the two-seat Z 242 by enlarging the cabin.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.58 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Four-seat touring development of the Z 242
- Larger 235 hp Lycoming engine
- Low straight wing, fixed tricycle gear
It looks like a scaled-up Z 242, with the same low straight wing and fixed tricycle gear but a longer, deeper four-seat cabin under a bubble canopy, driven by a single nose piston engine.
Specifications
- The Z 143 L has a length of 7.58 m (25 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.14 m (33 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 267 km/h (166 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 plus 3 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Moravan created the Z 143 in the early 1990s, first flying it in 1992 as a roomier four-seat stablemate to the Z 242 trainer. A more powerful fuel-injected Lycoming engine gave useful load and cruise performance. It rounded out the Zlin family for the touring and utility roles.
Variants
The Z 143 L is the main production model, sharing structure and systems with the Z 242 L trainer. Equipment and avionics packages varied by customer. It remained a low-volume but respected member of the Zlin range.
Where you'll see it
Used for touring, glider and banner towing and light utility work, the Z 143 L has flown with clubs and private owners including on the UK civil register. Its four seats broadened Zlin's appeal beyond pure training.
Related aircraft
AircraftIQ — the aircraft field guide: 4,893 recognition guides, live overhead identification, works offline.