Antonov An-26

Initially known as An-24T, AN-26 was equipped with AI-24T more powerful engines (2820 HP) and rear fuselage fully redesigned so that a large-size hatch could be installed. Used initially as a cargo plane with air dropping capabilities, it can be easily adapted for transporting passengers, medical evacuation or paratroopers. Generally, it is similar to An-24 except for several details such as:
- lower fuselage casing is „bimetalic”, duraluminium and titanium to ensure a better protection when operating on unprepared runways;
- AI-20T engines, 2820 HP, plus an auxilliary turbojet RU-19-300 with 883 daN thrust;
- Large hatch: 3.4 m length; 2.4 m front width; 2 m rear width; 1.47 height from the ground; can be folded under the fuselage or transformed into an access ramp for terrain vehicles, facilitating loading or dropping operations.
The aircraft was displayed for the first time in 1968 and entered the Romanian Air Force service in 1974.