The PLA Naval Aviation Yak-42 passenger plane 'B-4013' in landing (Source: FYJS Forum)
Last updated: 14 November 2006
The PLA Naval Air Force (PLANAF) has been operating two Russia-made Yak-42 passenger jets for the VIP transportation role since 1989. The two jets, carrying Chinese civil aviation serial numbers B-4012 and B-4013, are based at Haikou Naval Airbase on the Hainan Island. These planes were also used to ferry personnel and cargo between its home base and the PLA Navy airfield on the Yongxing Island in the Xisha Islands (Paracel Islands).
The three-engine Yak-42 was introduced in the Soviet Union in the 1980s as a short-range passenger plane with up to 120 seats. The aircraft design features an integral airstair, APU and double main undercarriage for austere airfield operations.
Specifications
Flight crew: 2, optional for an additional flight engineer Dimensions: Wingspan 34.88m, length 36.38m, height 9.83m Weight: Empty 34,500kg; maximum takeoff 57,000kg Powerplant: Three ZMKB Progress (Lotarev) D36 turbofans, each
rated at 63.7kN (14,330lb) Speed: Max cruise 810km/h; Economical cruise 750km/h Range: With max payload at long range cruising speed and
reserves 1,380km Passengers: 104~12
