The Yak-40 was the first jet powered airliner in its class in service in large numbers anywhere in the world, preceding the ERJ-135 and 328JET by three decades. A.S. Yakovlev (after whom the design bureau is named) led the Yak-40 design team, and the program's existence was revealed on October 21 1966, when the first prototype made its maiden flight. The type went into production in 1967 and entered service with Aeroflot in September 1968. Production continued until 1978, with 1011 built by the Saratov aircraft factory, of which 125 aircraft were exported to 18 countries.

First flown on August 31 1947, the An-2 entered production and service the following year. The unusual biplane configuration was chosen for its good takeoff performance, docile low speed handling and excellent climb rates, and the wings were fifted with leading edge slats and double slotted flaps, further improving performance, while power was supplied by a 745kW (1000hp) ASh-62 radial. Soviet production continued through until 1960, by which time a number of variants had been developed.