Zlín Z-242
Zlín · Czech Republic · first flew 1990 · glider
The Zlín Z-242 is a Czech all-metal low-wing monoplane used for basic and advanced flight training, aerobatics, and glider towing. It is approved for +6g / −3.5g manoeuvres and is capable of day and night IFR operations.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × none, embedded-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.07 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Tricycle nosewheel undercarriage — unlike taildragger Z-26/Z-126 ancestors
- Side-by-side seating under bubble canopy
- Textron Lycoming AEIO-360 with three-blade MTV propeller
Distinguished from the Z-142 by its redesigned engine cowl and nose profile; the tricycle undercarriage immediately separates it from earlier Zlín taildragger trainers.
Specifications
- The Zlín Z-242 has a length of 7.07 m (23 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 9.11 m (30 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 236 km/h (147 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 (side-by-side).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Design work began in 1977 as a development of the Z-142, with the prototype OK-076 first flying on 14 February 1990. The switch to the Lycoming AEIO-360 engine targeted the North American market, and production commenced in 1992 at Moravan a.s. in Otrokovice.
Variants
The Z-242 L is the primary production variant; the Z-242 LF introduced further refinements. The type differs from the Z-142 in its reshaped cowling, modified wing and tailplane tips, and updated fuel system.
Where you'll see it
Exported to flight schools across Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East; used by military flying training schools in several countries as an ab initio and aerobatic trainer.
Related aircraft
AircraftIQ — the aircraft field guide: 5,024 recognition guides, live overhead identification, works offline.