A training aircraft developed at the Moravan Otrokovice works in Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). A two-seat cantilever low-wing monoplane of all-metal construction with fixed landing gear, an enclosed cabin with side-by-side seating and dual controls. The prototype was first flown on 17 October 1967.
The prototype of the definitive production version, the Z 42 M, powered by an Avia M137AZ engine with a V-503a constant-speed propeller, was first flown in 1972, and production began in 1974. In 1978 the prototype of the Zlin Z 142, powered by a more powerful engine and fitted with a modified cabin canopy, was first flown, and in 1990 the Zlin Z 242, powered by an American Lycoming AEIO-360 engine.
The Zlin Z 42 M was one of the more popular aircraft types at Polish aero clubs. In 1975 the Aero Club of the Polish People’s Republic purchased the first 13 units, and more arrived in Poland in 1976. They were used for basic and intermediate pilot training as well as for basic aerobatics instruction. They were also used for agricultural pilot training at the “Agrolot” centre of the University of Agriculture and Technology in Olsztyn, at the airfield in Slawkowo near Ketrzyn.
The exhibited aircraft, serial number 0119, registration SP-GHD, manufactured in 1977, was operated by the “Agrolot” centre and subsequently by the Mielec Aero Club. It was purchased for the Museum’s collection in 2025.
| Wingspan | 9.11 m |
| Length | 7.07 m |
| Empty weight | 645 kg |
| Takeoff weight | 920 kg |
| Maximum speed | 223 km/h |
| Ceiling | 3,800 m |
| Range | 530 km |
| Engine | 6-cylinder inverted inline – Avia M137AZ, air-cooled, 180 hp (134 kW) |
