The C-145 Skytruck is a light military transport aircraft known for its utility and short take-off and landing (STOL) capabilities. Manufactured by PZL Mielec, it is a versatile platform used for troop and cargo transport, medical evacuation, and aerial delivery. Its design is based on the Polish license-built PZL M28 Skytruck, which is itself an evolution of the Antonov An-28.
PZL Mielec, historically known as the Transport Equipment Manufacturing Center (WSK), has a foundational history in Polish aviation. Established after World War II, the company began with licensed production, notably the Lim-1 (MiG-15 jet fighter). Through the 1970s, the company developed indigenous agricultural planes like the M-15 Belfegor and M18 Dromader. The factory was officially renamed PZL Mielec in 1975, continuing a legacy of producing aircraft for domestic and international use, including trainer aircraft like the TS-11 Iskra. Today, it operates as a major aerospace producer.
Maintaining the Skytruck requires comprehensive access to various aircraft sections. Specialized platforms and stands are used for the nose section (radome and avionics), the forward fuselage (cargo/baggage and cabin access), and both the nose and main landing gear. For the wing and engine pylon, articulated platforms allow for thorough maintenance of the engine body, flaps, and hydraulics. Comprehensive access solutions also support work on the AFT fuselage (cargo doors and rear avionics) and the tail section (vertical and horizontal stabilizers).
