Zlín Z-XIII (single seat) Project

The airplane was developed as the peak of Jaroslav Lonek’s construction skills in 1937. It could be used both for sporting competitions and as a quick courier aeroplane for transporting top managers from Bata’s Concerns. Even during test-flights, this aircraft had surprised with its high performance and modern look. However, it needed a good airport with long runways. And on account of its landing speed, 140 km per hour, (very high at that time) and of its high carrying capacity the aircraft could only be flown by skilled pilots.

Unfortunately, it was not allowed to take part in the last possible speed competition ahead of the outbreak of WWII. The great pilot Ján Ambrus arrived at the starting point late (not his own fault).

Due to the occupation of Czechoslovakia by National-Socialistic Germany, there was never any possibility for the assembly line production of the plane, but thanks to the efforts of Zlín employees of the period, we still have the original prototype to enjoy today as it was taken into the care of the National Technical Museum in Prague shortly after the war and has remained in their hands ever since.

Through 1989 and 1990, the aircraft was restored and placed on permanent display in the museum’s transportation hall.