Antonov AN-24

The Antonov An-24 is a twin-turboprop airliner designed by the Soviet Antonov design bureau in the late 1950s and produced primarily for Aeroflot to serve short- and medium-haul regional routes, particularly those connecting smaller cities with limited runway infrastructure. Its rugged design and ability to operate from unpaved or grass strips made it invaluable across the Soviet Union and in developing nations worldwide. Over 1,000 aircraft were built between 1959 and 1979, with production also licensed to China as the Xian Y-7. The An-24 became one of the most widely exported Soviet commercial aircraft, serving airlines and military operators across Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Despite its age, the An-24 remains in service with a number of regional and charter carriers, particularly in Central Asia, Russia, Africa, and North Korea. Its simple systems and robust construction have contributed to its exceptional longevity, though aging airframes and parts availability continue to pose maintenance challenges.