Naval Aviation Aircraft Of The Day: Y-5 Transport

While the PLAAF’s operation of the Y‑5 transport is well known, it may come as a surprise that the PLAN Naval Aviation also continues to field this updated variant of the Antonov An‑2 ‘Colt.’ A remarkably enduring aircraft, it’s still going strong.

 

 At the same time J-35 as well.  Talking about an age gap

 

Sunday, December 01, 2024

Y-5 biplane said good bye to another crew

Yesterday, the PLAAF airborne said goodbye to this year's retired crew members of a Y-5 unit.  The Y-5, which initially entered service on December 23rd, 1957, under direct Soviet supervision, is still operational, awaiting a new crew to continue flying.

Y-5B, a search and rescue variant on display at the recent 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, yes it is still going strong

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Yes, they are still making An-2 Colt / Y-5 biplane in China

The latest Y-5BG model completed her first flight on March 3rd, 2020 (here).  As a point of reference, the original An-2 completed her first on 1947.

Engine is Honeywell PE-331 turboprop and all civilian to boot.  Cheap to operate, easy to handle and can land anywhere, why not?  Great for agriculture applications

 

Saturday, February 06, 2021

Forever Y-5, still in service with the China Air Force for anti desertification aerial seeding

 China Air Force Unit: 3rd Transportation and SAR Regiment, Western Theater Command