While most commercial flights involve familiar aircraft like the ubiquitous Airbus A320 or Boeing 737, the world of aviation still hosts a collection of truly unusual and quirky planes. These rare birds continue to operate across various regions, each with its own unique history and design features that set them apart from the standard fleet.
The Enduring Legacy of Soviet Aviation
Russian Ilyushin Quad-Jet IL96
The Russian Ilyushin Quad-Jet IL96 represents a fascinating chapter in aviation history. Developed as a successor to the IL-86, this aircraft marked Ilyushin's first foray into wide-bodied aircraft manufacturing. Remarkably, it serves as the primary presidential aircraft for the Russian government today.
This four-engined, long-range aircraft is renowned for its robust construction and distinctive Soviet-era cabin features. Passengers might notice the unusual fold-forward seats and the absence of overhead lockers in the centre section of the plane.
Although the IL96's full rollout was interrupted by the collapse of the USSR in 1991, several models remain operational. Cubana airlines continues to operate one of these quad-jets on its Minsk-Havana route, while other versions serve as cargo planes.
Regional Rarities and Limited Production Models
Fairchild-Dornier 328JET
Originating from a German manufacturer, the Fairchild-Dornier 328JET stands out for its compact size. The executive configuration typically accommodates up to 15 passengers, while the commercial version seats a maximum of 32 travellers.
Production ceased in 2005 when owner AvCraft entered administration, yet several operators still maintain these aircraft. Danish charter airline Sun Air operates eight models, with additional examples flying for Key Lime Air/Denver Air Connection in Colorado and Sepehran Airlines in Iran.
Fokker 70
Dutch manufacturer Fokker created this narrow-body, twin-engine regional airliner, which faced the challenge of overcoming historical associations with German military use during the First World War. The Fokker 70 gained popularity as a regional jet with carriers like Air France Regional and KLM Cityhopper.
Today, while primarily serving the air forces of Kenya and Myanmar, civilian passengers can still experience this aircraft through several operators. Brisbane's Alliance Airlines, Air Niugini in Papua New Guinea, Suriname's Fly All Ways, and Nairobi-based Skyward Express all maintain Fokker 70s in their fleets.
American Classics and Scandinavian Specials
Boeing 757-300
While the Boeing 737 dominates commercial aviation, its lesser-known cousin, the Boeing 757-300, offers a distinctive profile. Introduced in 1999 for short to medium-haul routes, this 'stretched' design earned the nickname 'flying pencil' for its elongated appearance.
With only 55 units manufactured before production ended in 2004, these aircraft have become increasingly rare. United Airlines and Delta continue to operate some models, alongside Fly Khiva of Uzbekistan.
DC-9
The McDonnell Douglas DC-9 represents a true aviation classic, having first flown in 1965 and inspired numerous subsequent passenger jet designs. This American five-abreast, single-aisle aircraft now sees extremely limited commercial service.
African Express Airways stands as the sole airline still operating the DC-9 for passenger flights, though some cargo variants also remain in service.
Saab 2000
Swedish manufacturer Saab developed the Saab 2000 in the early 1990s to meet demand for efficient regional aircraft with jet-like performance. The aircraft's rarity stems from its limited production run of just 63 units between 1992 and 1999.
First flying in 1992 and entering commercial service in 1994, the Saab 2000 saw declining demand in later years. Today, adventurous travellers can experience this rare aircraft with Alaska's Aleutian Airways or Sweden's Frost Air of Malmo.
These unusual aircraft demonstrate that beyond the standardised world of modern aviation, fascinating flying machines with unique histories continue to grace our skies. From Soviet-era engineering to limited-production regional jets, each offers a distinctive travel experience for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
