Nanchang Cj-6a

Single Piston

The Nanchang CJ-6A is a Chinese-built tandem-seat military trainer that became one of the most widely produced aircraft in aviation history, with over 2,000 examples manufactured between 1958 and the 1980s. Developed by the state-owned Nanchang Aircraft Manufacturing Company as a successor to the Soviet Yak-18, the CJ-6 served as the primary basic trainer for the People's Liberation Army Air Force and was exported to numerous countries including Albania, Bangladesh, and North Korea. Its robust all-metal construction, conventional tailwheel configuration, and forgiving flight characteristics made it ideal for ab-initio military pilot training during the Cold War era. Powered by a single Housai HS-6A nine-cylinder radial engine producing 285 horsepower, the CJ-6A delivers spirited aerobatic performance with a roll rate exceeding 120 degrees per second and the ability to sustain positive and negative G loads up to +7/-5. Following the end of the Cold War, surplus CJ-6As entered the civilian warbird market in significant numbers, particularly in the United States where they were certificated under FAA Type Certificate A00012EN. American owners prize the type for its low operating costs, authentic military trainer pedigree, and fully aerobatic capability at a fraction of the price of comparable Western trainers like the T-6 Texan. The aircraft's distinctive appearance—featuring a bubble canopy, spatted landing gear, and bright training colors—makes it a popular attraction at airshows and formation flying events. SkyMeter has tracked 3 flights across 2 airframes and 2 operators, with RING NIEL W among the observed operators.