PlaneFox tracks 1 Z 143 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.
A Zlin Aircraft (Moravan) Z 143 flies about 599 nm, roughly 1,109 km, which is about 4 h 34 min in still air at typical cruise.
A Zlin Aircraft (Moravan) Z 143 costs about EUR 1,925 a month to run, or about EUR 204 for every flight hour when it is flown 150 hours a year.
The Zlin Aircraft (Moravan) Z 143 is a Czech four seat, low wing, fixed gear piston aircraft built by Moravan Otrokovice, later associated with the Zlin Aircraft name. It first flew in the early 1990s and entered production in 1993 as a larger, more powerful companion to the two seat Zlin trainers. The type was designed for private touring, ab initio and advanced training, instrument instruction, and limited aerobatic or utility work depending on certification and equipment. For buyers, it matters because it combines a robust training airframe with genuine four place utility, while retaining the direct handling character for which Zlin aircraft are known.
Most Zlin Aircraft (Moravan) Z 143 examples are identified as Z 143 L and use a 235 hp Lycoming O-540 series six cylinder engine driving a constant speed propeller. Typical cruise performance is in the region of 115 to 125 knots, depending on power setting, loading, propeller, and airframe condition. Published figures for the Z 143 L include a maximum takeoff weight of about 2,976 lb, a useful load of roughly 1,250 lb, and a service ceiling around 15,000 ft. Range is commonly quoted at approximately 500 nautical miles with reserves, again dependent on fuel fit and operating profile. The fixed tricycle gear and relatively high power output give the aircraft practical short field and training value without the complexity of retractable landing gear.
The cabin seats four in a conventional two plus two layout, with dual controls normally fitted for instructional use. Visibility is good for training and local flying, helped by the low wing configuration and broad glazing. The Z 143 is not typically associated with factory Garmin Perspective or G1000 installations. Used aircraft more commonly have analog flight instruments, Bendix/King or similar radios, and later retrofits such as Garmin GNS 430 or 530 navigators, Garmin GTN units, Mode S or ADS-B transponders, and modern audio panels. Buyers should evaluate panel layout, IFR approval status, and whether avionics documentation matches the installed equipment.
On the used market, the Zlin Aircraft (Moravan) Z 143 usually appeals to owners seeking a durable European four seat trainer or tourer rather than a mainstream high volume type. Condition and records drive value. Important checks include evidence of flight school or aerobatic use, engine and propeller time, landing gear and engine mount condition, corrosion protection, compliance with service bulletins, and availability of parts support. The Z 143 L is the principal version encountered, with value affected by avionics upgrades, paint and interior condition, and whether the aircraft has been maintained under a recognized training or private operation regime.