Soviet Plane Repair Hangar, Lithuania

Tucked inside this Soviet Plane Repair Hanger, are some interesting old aeroplanes. A pair of 1960s Yak-18T with Aeroflot (Russian: Аэрофло́т) livery, as well as a vintage glider and a mysterious “experimental” model plane. I explored this location during the 2019 Baltics Tour.

History of Yakovlev Yak-18T (Russian: кoвлeв к-18T)

The Yakovlev Yak-18T (Russian: кoвлeв к-18T) is a four- or five-seat fully aerobatic utility aircraft. Designed and built by Yakovlev in the late 1960s. Originally designed to teach Aeroflot pilots, these planes have since found success as a sport plane in both Russia and beyond. Many aviation enthusiasts consider the Yak-18T a classic aircraft because of its ruggedness and durability. Even today, it often features in aerobatic displays due to its impressive capabilities.

The Yak-18T was introduced in the early 1960s as an upgraded version of the Yak-18. It featured a more powerful engine, a retractable landing gear, and improved avionics. The aircraft’s design included flaps and other features that enabled a broader range of flight maneuvers. It can accommodate four or five people depending on the configuration and is equipped with a nine-cylinder radial engine that generates 360 horsepower.

The Yak-18T quickly became a popular choice for flight training, thanks to its ease of use and reliability. Aeroflot flight schools used the Yak-18T as their primary basic trainer, and the Soviet Air Force put a few into service as liaison and communications planes. The Yak-18T, however, stands out because to its sturdy build, aerobatic prowess, and easy-going yet responsive handling. The Yak-18T has a wide range of uses, such as aerial photography, surveying, and aerobatics displays.

In the late 1980s, production halted after around 200 Yak-T had been constructed; many of these were ordered by Aeroflot. Small-scale production resumed in 1993, but ceased (again) at least a decade ago.