Antonov An-72

The Antonov An-72 (NATO reporting name: Coaler) is a transport aircraft, developed and produced by the Ukrainian aircraft manufacturer Antonov. The An-72 and the related An-74 get their nickname, Cheburashka, from the large engine intake ducts, which resemble the oversized ears of the popular Soviet animated character of the same name.

Design work on the An-72 commenced during the early 1970s, likely as the Soviet Union's response to the American Advanced Medium STOL Transport (AMST) programme that was ultimately terminated. It was developed in relative secrecy as a short takeoff and landing (STOL) transport aircraft and was intended to serve as a jet-powered replacement for the Antonov An-26. The An-72 made the use of the Coandă effect to improve its STOL performance by directly engine exhaust gases over the upper surface of the wing to boost lift. This performance directed numerous other design features across the aircraft, including its use of a T-tail and the specifics of its flight control system. It was also equipped with an automatic navigation system and a robust undercarriage, the latter feature facilitated the use of austere airstrips.

The An-72's maiden flight took place on 31 August 1977. Quantity production did not proceed until the late 1980s, although the type did see active service with the Soviet Air Force prior to its dissolution. The An-72's export prospects had been hampered by the airlifter's development being concealed even from Western certifying bodies. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, various successor states, including Russia and Ukraine, inherited the type and continued to operate it. In addition to its use as a military airlifter, some An-72 variants have found success as commercial freighters with various airlines operating the type. An An-72 derivative, the An-74, is designed to operate under the harsh weather conditions of the polar regions.