Yakovlev - Yak-42
Although larger and similar in appearance to its smaller cousin, the Yak 42 has a lot of markedly different design aspects than the Yak 40 however the manufacturer’s requirements were very similar. The Yak 42 program began in the early 70’s spurred by Aeroflot’s requirement for a replacement for the IL-18 and the Tu-134 in the medium range category. The aircraft suffered a setback soon after entering service, in that an accident in 1982 caused by vibrations in the tail section grounded the aircraft until modifications were made. Production and service resumed in 1984.
The first flight of the aircraft took place on the 7th March 1975. Due to the new design rigorous testing took place, which culminated with the aircraft entering into active service with Aeroflot on 22nd December 1980. The aircraft was the first Russian aircraft to receive certification of unrestricted flight in all European countries.
In 1988 Saratov manufacturing company responsible for the manufacture of the aircraft began production of an improved version the Yak 42D. This model is currently the most common variant for the type featuring includes a higher take off weight and greater operational range. Recent upgrades to this in the guise of the Yak 142 has western digital avionics and increased fuel capacity. First flight of which was made in December 1992
Models of the Yak 42 to date include Yak-42, 42D, 42F (Aerial photography variant with 2 large under wing containers containing electro-optical indicators), 42M and the Yak 142.
