The Antonov An-26 is a twin-engined turboprop civilian and military transport aircraft, designed and manufactured in the Soviet Union by the Antonov Design Bureau. It is a highly versatile aircraft known for its ruggedness and ability to operate from unprepared airfields, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, particularly in challenging environments.
Here are some key characteristics of the An-26:
- Role: Primarily a tactical military transport, but also widely used for civilian cargo and passenger operations. Its robust design makes it popular in regions with less developed infrastructure.
- Engines: It is powered by two Ivchenko AI-24VT turboprop engines, which are reliable and well-suited for its operational profile.
- Design: It's a high-wing monoplane, which provides good ground clearance for operating from rough strips. A distinctive feature is its large rear loading ramp, which can be lowered to act as a cargo door, allowing for easy loading of vehicles and bulky items, as well as for air-dropping cargo or paratroopers. The ramp can also be partially opened in flight for continuous air-dropping.
- Payload Capacity: The An-26 can carry approximately 5,500 kg (12,125 lb) of cargo or up to 38-40 passengers/paratroopers, depending on the configuration.
- Operational Capabilities: Known for its excellent STOL (Short Take-off and Landing) capabilities, it can operate from unpaved, grass, and gravel runways. This makes it ideal for supporting remote communities or military operations in forward areas.
- Range: It has a medium operational range, suitable for regional transport missions.
- Variants: While the An-26 is the primary transport version, there were other variants, including reconnaissance, maritime patrol, and calibration aircraft.
- Operators: Due to its robust design and relatively low operating costs, it has been widely operated by air forces and civilian airlines in former Soviet bloc countries, Africa, Asia, and other regions around the world. Many are still in active service today.
- Cockpit: The flight deck is typically configured for a crew of five: two pilots, a flight engineer, a navigator, and a radio operator.
