What a Yakovlev YAK-54 costs, how far it flies, and what it costs to keep
PlaneFox tracks 1 Yakovlev YAK-54 aircraft for sale and re-reads every one of them from the broker and dealer sites it watches, so the figures below move when the market moves. Every number on this page is measured from those live listings, not taken from a published price guide.
How far can a Yakovlev YAK-54 fly?
A Yakovlev YAK-54 flies about 378 nm, roughly 700 km, which is about 1 h 57 min in still air at typical cruise.
What does a Yakovlev YAK-54 cost to own?
A Yakovlev YAK-54 costs about EUR 2,196 a month to run, or about EUR 229 for every flight hour when it is flown 150 hours a year.
More questions about the Yakovlev YAK-54
How much does a Yakovlev YAK-54 cost?
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What should I check when buying a used Yakovlev YAK-54?
About the Yakovlev YAK-54
Aircraft overview
The Yakovlev YAK-54 is a Russian two seat aerobatic aircraft developed by the Yakovlev Design Bureau as a dedicated competition and advanced training platform. The type first flew in the early 1990s, with production following in limited numbers during the 1990s and 2000s. It was conceived as a tandem seat counterpart to the single seat Yakovlev aerobatic line, giving instructors and pilots a high energy aircraft for unlimited style aerobatics, display flying and transition training. Its significance is in combining classic Yakovlev aerobatic handling, a radial engine and a relatively simple airframe in a purpose built rather than converted trainer.
Performance & specifications
Typical published data for the Yakovlev YAK-54 lists a Vedeneyev M14P nine cylinder radial engine rated at 360 hp, driving a constant speed propeller. Cruise speed is commonly cited in the region of 120 to 140 knots, depending on propeller, power setting and aircraft configuration. Published range is about 270 nautical miles, with a service ceiling of approximately 13,000 feet. Maximum takeoff weight is generally listed around 2,390 lb, with an empty weight near 1,695 lb, giving a useful load of roughly 700 lb before equipment differences. The airframe is stressed for serious aerobatics, commonly quoted at +9 and -7 g.
Cabin & avionics
The cockpit is arranged with tandem seating under a clear canopy, with flight controls available from both seats. Cabin comfort is secondary to visibility, control feel and aerobatic ergonomics. Storage is limited, and the aircraft is not intended for touring or business travel. Avionics are usually basic VFR equipment rather than integrated glass systems such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective. Buyers should expect combinations of conventional flight instruments, Russian or Western engine gauges, a comm radio, transponder, intercom and, in some upgraded aircraft, a compact GPS or light EFIS installation.
Buying & value
On the used market, the Yakovlev YAK-54 occupies a specialized niche: more focused than a Yak-52 trainer, more practical for instruction than a single seat Yak-55, and less common than Western aerobatic types. Inspection priorities include complete import and maintenance records, aerobatic usage history, corrosion control, canopy condition, landing gear attachments, control system wear, fuel and smoke system condition, and documented engine and propeller times. The M14P is well supported in specialist circles, but parts sourcing and mechanic familiarity should be confirmed before purchase. Common upgrades include Western radios and transponders, modern engine monitoring, smoke systems, brake improvements and alternative propellers. Value is driven by documentation, condition, engine health and legality for the intended operating category.