Nanchang CJ-6
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1958 |
| Founder | Tu Jida, Lin Jiahua |
| Headquarters | Nanchang , China |
| Products | Aircraft (including Nanchang CJ-6 trainer) |
The Nanchang CJ-6 () is a fundamental trainer aircraft developed and manufactured in China by the Nanchang Aircraft Factory (currently known as Hongdu Aviation) for use by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
Development
The CJ-6 (Chu Jiao 初教, short for Chuji Jiaolianji 初级教练机, meaning basic trainer aircraft) represents an entirely indigenous Chinese design, frequently confused with the Yak-18A. Its forerunner, the Nanchang CJ-5, was a licensed production of the Yak-18. However, changing pilot training demands necessitated enhanced capabilities and the adoption of tricycle landing gear. Upon evaluation of the Soviet Yak-18A, PLAAF engineers determined it did not meet China's specific needs.
Initiated in 1958 by the Nanchang Aircraft Factory (now Hongdu Aviation), the design team included more than 20 specialists from Shenyang Aircraft Factory, led by chief designers Tu Jida and Lin Jiahua. Renowned Chinese aeronautical engineers Xu Shunshou and Huang Zhiqian also contributed to the project.
In late 1957, designers Cheng Bushi and Lin Jiahua created a trainer that addressed deficiencies found in the Yak-18A. The aircraft featured an aluminum semi-monocoque fuselage with flush riveting, paired with a modified Clark airfoil wing exhibiting a distinct dihedral angle that set it apart from the Yak-18A. Following validation through wind tunnel testing, production commenced at Nanchang under Chief Engineer Gao Zhenning’s supervision. The maiden flight took place on August 27, 1958.
Initially, the prototype was equipped with a Czech horizontally opposed piston engine; however, trials indicated a need for greater power. Consequently, it was replaced by a domestically produced variant of the Soviet Ivchenko AI-14P radial engine delivering 260 hp, known as the Huosai HS-6 (), along with a compatible propeller, which paved the way for mass production approval. In 1965, an upgraded HS-6A version rated at 285 hp was introduced, with aircraft powered by this engine designated as CJ-6A.
Production exceeded 3,000 units, primarily supporting PLAAF pilot training and exported under the PT-6 designation to countries including Albania, Bangladesh, Cambodia, North Korea, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka.
The CJ-7 Trainer (L-7), developed through collaboration between Hongdu and Yakovlev, is anticipated to succeed the CJ-6 within PLAAF operations.
Although military service began over sixty years ago, the CJ-6 only obtained its civil aviation type certification on February 28, 2019.
General information
The Nanchang CJ-6 relies heavily on pneumatics for operating its landing gear and flap extension/retraction systems, managing brakes, and initiating engine start-up. An engine-driven air pump maintains system pressure; if insufficient pressure prevents engine start-up, an onboard air tank can be replenished externally. In absence of external assistance, manual propeller swinging can also start the engine.
Variants
- Hongzhuan-502 (Hongzhuan meaning Red Craftsman)
- Original production designation assigned to the CJ-6 aircraft.
- CJ-6
- A two-seat primary trainer powered by a 260-hp Zhuzhou Huosai HS-6 radial piston engine.
- CJ-6A
- Enhanced model featuring a 285-hp Zhuzhou Huosai HS-6A radial piston engine.
- CJ-6B
- Armed two-seat border patrol version equipped with a 300-hp Zhuzhou Huosai HS-6D radial piston engine; manufactured in limited quantities.
- PT-6
- Export label used for both CJ-6 and CJ-6A variants.
- PT-6A
- Export variant corresponding to the CJ-6A.
- Haiyan A (Haiyan meaning Petrel)
- Prototype first flown on August 17, 1985.
- Haiyan B
- Single-seat aircraft designed for agricultural topdressing, aerial spraying, and firefighting roles with an upgraded 345-hp Huosai HS-6 engine.
- Haiyan C
- General aviation model intended for agricultural use and recreational flying.
Operators
- Albanian Air Force – Acquired 10 BT-6 units in 1962, followed by 20 BT-6A models delivered in 1966 and 1971.
- Bangladesh Air Force – Operates a fleet of up to 24 PT-6 aircraft.
- Khmer Air Force
- Ecuadorian Army Aviation
- People's Liberation Army Air Force
- People's Liberation Army Navy Air Force
- Korean People's Army Air Force
- Lao People's Liberation Army Air Force
- Sri Lanka Air Force
- Tanzania Air Force Command
- Zambian Air Force
Civilian use
The CJ-6A has gained popularity among civilian pilots due to its cost-effectiveness and robust construction, with examples registered in countries including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and others. In the US market, pre-owned CJ-6 aircraft are typically priced around $75,000. A noteworthy operator is Carl Gremlick, a former US Air Force squadron leader who flies a restored CJ-6 from his personal hangar in California, joining a network of aviators who enjoy direct taxiway access from residential streets.
In Australia, CJ-6 aircraft operate under the Limited Category framework, overseen by the Australian Warbirds Association Limited (AWAL) with authorization from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to manage former military planes.
Accidents and incidents
- On 15 December 2020, a Sri Lanka Air Force Nanchang CJ-6 (PT-6) crashed near Kantale shortly after departing from China Bay Airport, resulting in the fatality of the trainee pilot.
- On 5 July 2021, a privately owned CJ-6A collided with a lawn mower during landing at Saint-Esprit Aerodrome; the mower operator was killed while the pilot sustained no injuries.
- On 7 August 2023, a Sri Lanka Air Force PT-6 crashed soon after takeoff from China Bay Airport, causing the deaths of both officers aboard. Following this incident, the Sri Lanka Air Force temporarily suspended operations of its entire PT-6 fleet pending further investigation.