Designed as a strategic military freighter, the Antonov An-72 (NATO reporting name Coaler) was intended as a replacement for the An-26, but variants have found success as commercial freighters. Produced in tandem with the An-72, the Antonov An-74 variant adds the ability to operate in harsh weather conditions in polar regions. Other An-72 versions include the An-72S VIP transport and An-72P maritime patrol aircraft.

An interesting design feature of the An-72 and -74 is the use of the Coanda effect to improve STOL performance, utilizing engine exhaust gases blown over the wing's upper surface to boost lift. The first flight was made in August 31, 1977. The power plant used is ZMKB Progress D36. The freighter can travel at a speed of 330 knots / 611 km/h / 0.50 mach.

The An-72 bears a strong resemblance to an earlier aircraft, the experimental Boeing YC-14.

Related content

Related development: An-71 - An-74

Comparable aircraft: Boeing YC-14

Designation sequence: An-70 - An-71 - An-72 - An-74 - An-88 - An-124

See also: List of civil aircraft