The LET 410 is a twin-engine turboprop aircraft which has a fascinating history dating back to the 1960s. It was designed and manufactured by the Czechoslovakian aircraft company, Let Kunovice, which later became Let Aircraft Industries and is now part of the Aircraft Industries (AI) group.
LET 410 History
The LET 410’s maiden flight took place on April 16, 1969, showcasing its capabilities and potential.
It was designed as a versatile and robust aircraft, with a focus on reliability and adaptability. Its high-wing configuration and twin-engine setup, initially powered by Walter M-601 turboprop engines, allowed it to operate from short and unpaved runways, making it ideal for regional and commuter routes.
It officially entered production in the early 1970s.
LET 410 Variants and Upgrades
Over the years, the LET 410 underwent several modifications and upgrades, resulting in different variants such as the LET 410 UVP-E, UVP-E20, and UVP-E20 VIP. These variants featured improved engines, avionics, and passenger amenities, enhancing their overall performance and comfort.
The aircraft gained popularity in various roles, including passenger transportation, cargo, medical evacuation, and even military applications. Its durability and ability to operate in rugged conditions made it a versatile workhorse in numerous countries.
The LET 410’s production continued for several decades, with over 1,100 units built. Its enduring legacy as a reliable regional aircraft is a testament to the design’s success.
The LET 410 Today
Alex Beltyukov – RuSpotters Team, CC BY-SA 3.0 GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons
The LET 410 continues to serve various operators around the world, connecting communities and fulfilling a range of mission requirements.
Yet it is seen as somewhat of a rare or unusual type to fly on, and has become something of a target for special flight enthusiasts.
According to our book, Last Chance to Fly (available to Airport Spotting Premium members), there are over 30 airlines currently flying regular passenger (or charter) services using the LET 410. These are mostly the later variants.
Operators of the LET 410 include:
Africa
Air Excel, Tanzania
Blue Sky Aviation, Kenya
Cabo Verde Express, Cape Verde
Eagle Air Uganda, Uganda
Asia & Middle East
Summit Air, Nepal
Susi Air, Indonesia
Uzbekistan Airways, Uzbekistan
Bernal Saborio
South America
Nature Air, Costa Rica,
SEARCA, Colombia
Skyway, Costa Rica
Europe
NovAir, Armenia
Silver Air, Czech Republic
Vanilla Sky Airlines, Georgia
Zhez Air, Kazakhstan
There are also many airline within Russia still flying the LET 410, but we have not listed those because of the ongoing conflict.
Uzbekistan Airways Joins the Club
Causing something of a stir, Uzbekistan Airways recently added the LET 410 to its fleet.
This airline which otherwise flies modern airliners on its international services, has leased two of the small, robust turboprops to introduce regional flights to smaller airports with short runways.
The aircraft feature the airline’s colourful livery in full, and keep the type very much active today.
What’s it Like Flying on the LET 410?
Flying the LET 410 can be an exhilarating experience.
With a small, box-like cabin and swift, STOL (short take-off and landing) capabilities, it requires little runway to get airborne and its engines provide a great experience for the ears of older airline fans.
Here are some videos showing what it’s like to fly a LET 410.
Have you flown on a LET 410? Leave a comment below!
Last Chance to Fly
If you want to know more about the airlines that fly the LET 410 and many more rare and historic airliners, why not become an Airport Spotting Premium member? Membership gives you access to our guide, Last Chance to Fly, which is updated regularly and lists all known operators of rare aircraft types in passenger service.
From the iconic DC-3 to Soviet types like the Antonov An-24 and Tupolev Tu-154; from the fast-disappearing Airbus A300 and Boeing 737-200 to the earlier generation regional jets like the Fokker 70 and 100.
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