The Tupolev Tu-124
I didn't try the floating capabilities... so the picture doesnt really match the title
General information
Designed as a replacement for the Il-14 propliner, the Tu-124 looks like a smaller version of the Tu-104 (the first commercially operated jet airliner). While it looks almost the same, it was technically much more advanced than it's turbojet powered predecessor. Equipped with fuel efficient turbofans and an improved wing, it had enough performance to be operated on smaller airports.
The final production numbers were quite low, because most of the COMECON airlines decided to wait for the much more advanced Tu-134.
The civilian version was used by Aeroflot, Interflug (operated by the NVA), CSA and Iraqi Airways.
A VIP version was built for the Chinese AF, Czechoslovakian AF, Indian AF and the VVS.
There were also a few specialized navigation trainers for the VVS.
The last flight of the type was in 1992, with civil operations halted in 1980
Famous incidents
In 1963, a Tu-124 operated by Aeroflot had a nose gear malfunction, while enroute from Leningrad to Moscow. The nosegear failed to retract because a part fell off during the takeoff run.
While the pilots were circling to burn off fuel, the airport prepared the dirt strip for an emergency landing. While the crew was busy trying to get the nosgear back in the 'down' position they ran out of fuel.
The pilots decided to ditch in the Neva river, and made a succesfull water landing. Nobody was injured.
Reports and pictures (all in english)
Video with interview and a few pictures
More photos (and that Yak-40 is now flying for Polet Airlines)
