Repülgépünk

Repülgépünk is a Hungarian aircraft project that began in the late 1960s as part of the country’s effort to develop indigenous aviation technology during the era of the Hungarian People's Republic. The project was led by the Institute of Aviation Research (IAV) and the Hungarian State Aircraft Factory (OP) in Budapest, with the goal of creating a multi‑purpose light aircraft suitable for both civilian and military training roles. The design philosophy emphasized simplicity, low cost, and ease of maintenance, drawing inspiration from popular Western trainers such as the Cessna 152 and the de Havilland Chipmunk.

The prototype, designated HV‑1, first flew on 15 March 1973 at the Komárno airfield. It featured a conventional low‑wing configuration, tailwheel landing gear, and a 65‑knot maximum speed. The aircraft was powered by a 75‑hp Rotax 912 ULS engine, resulting in a cruising speed of 109 km/h (68 mph) and a range of 380 km (236 mi). During its test program, the HV‑1 delivered satisfactory handling qualities and demonstrated reliable performance in various weather conditions.

Despite its technical merits, the project faced economic difficulties after the fall of socialism in 1989. Production was halted in 1992 before the aircraft entered mass production, though a small number of prototypes were retained for experimental use and displayed in aviation museums. A 2000s revival effort by the private company Avia-Tech sought to modernize the design with composite materials and a modern avionics suite, but the project did not progress beyond the design review stage. Repülgépünk remains a notable example of Hungary’s mid‑20th‑century aviation aspirations and serves as a reference point for studies on small aircraft development in Eastern Europe.