Comprehensive Antonov An-2 Aircraft Documentation

Access the comprehensive technical library for one of the most remarkable and longest-produced aircraft in aviation history. This digital collection includes pilot operating handbooks, maintenance documentation, and technical specifications for the Antonov An-2, the legendary Soviet biplane that defied obsolescence for over seven decades.

Historical Significance

The Antonov An-2, affectionately known as "Annushka" (Little Anna) or "Kukuruznik" (Corn Cutter), stands as one of the most successful aircraft designs ever created. First flown in August 1947, this single-engine biplane was designed by Oleg Antonov to replace the aging Polikarpov Po-2 in agricultural and utility roles across the Soviet Union. What began as a simple agricultural aircraft evolved into one of the most versatile and enduring designs in aviation history.

The An-2's production run is unmatched in aviation—over 18,000 aircraft were built between 1947 and 2001, making it one of the most-produced aircraft since World War II. Initial production took place at the Soviet factories in Kiev and Dolgoprudny, but in 1960, manufacturing was transferred to Poland's WSK PZL-Mielec, which produced the aircraft until 1991. China's Shijiazhuang Aircraft Corporation continued production as the Yunshuji Y-5 (and later Fengshuo FS-62) well into the 21st century, with the last aircraft rolling off the assembly line in 2001—an extraordinary 54-year production span.

The An-2's design was revolutionary in its simplicity and practicality. Powered by a single Shvetsov ASh-62IR nine-cylinder radial engine producing 1,000 horsepower, the aircraft featured a massive biplane wing configuration that provided exceptional low-speed handling and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities. The An-2 could operate from unprepared strips as short as 560 feet and had a stall speed so low (around 30 mph) that pilots joked it could "fly backwards in a strong headwind."

The aircraft's versatility became legendary. Beyond its original agricultural role, the An-2 served as a passenger transport (carrying 12 passengers), cargo hauler, paratrooper transport, air ambulance, firefighting platform, geophysical survey aircraft, and even light bomber. Its rugged construction, simple systems, and ability to operate from primitive airstrips made it indispensable across the Soviet Union, Eastern Bloc, China, and dozens of developing nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The An-2 saw military service with air forces worldwide, serving in roles from transport and liaison to covert operations. During the Cold War, North Korean An-2s were used for infiltration missions, flying low and slow to evade radar. The aircraft's fabric-covered steel tube fuselage and wooden wing structure made it nearly invisible to radar systems designed to detect metal aircraft.

Remarkably, the An-2 remains in active service today, more than 75 years after its first flight. Thousands continue operating in Russia, China, Eastern Europe, and developing nations, performing the same utility roles for which it was designed. The aircraft's longevity, reliability, and adaptability have made it a cultural icon—a testament to Oleg Antonov's brilliant design philosophy of rugged simplicity over technological complexity.

What's Included

• Pilot Operating Handbook - Comprehensive flight procedures, performance data, and operational techniques for STOL operations
• Maintenance Documentation - Detailed servicing procedures, inspection schedules, and technical specifications
• Technical Specifications - System descriptions, engineering data, and component information
• Variant Coverage - Documentation applicable to Soviet, Polish, and Chinese production variants
• Operational Guidance - Information on agricultural operations, cargo handling, and rough-field procedures

Perfect For

• An-2 owners, operators, and maintenance personnel worldwide
• Aviation historians researching Soviet aircraft design and Cold War aviation
• Restoration specialists working on Antonov An-2 aircraft
• Museum curators preserving knowledge of this historically significant design
• Researchers studying STOL aircraft and agricultural aviation development
• Flight training organizations operating An-2 aircraft
• Flight simulator enthusiasts seeking authentic technical data
• Collectors of historical aviation documentation

Digital Download Benefits

• Instant Access - Download immediately after purchase
• Searchable PDFs - Quickly locate specific procedures and technical information
• Print on Demand - Create physical copies as needed
• Permanent Archive - Preserve your own reference library
• Multiple Devices - Access on computer, tablet, or smartphone
• Historical Preservation - Archive documentation for this legendary aircraft

This collection preserves essential technical knowledge for one of the most successful and enduring aircraft ever built. Whether you're operating an An-2, researching Soviet aviation history, restoring "Annushka," or simply appreciate this remarkable biplane that has served for over 75 years across six continents, these manuals provide invaluable reference material for the legendary Antonov An-2.

Disclaimer: Sold for historical and reference purposes only. These original or reproduced manuals and blueprints are transferred to electronic format from active-duty archives. Not intended for current certification or repair work. Ideal for scholars, collectors, modelers, and aviation enthusiasts. We provide civil manuals and blueprints on obsolete aircraft, engines, and helicopters for proprietary reasons. Information is for reference only; completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed.

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