Tupolev Tu-124

Aeroflot's requirement for a short/ medium-range airliner to replace the llyushin IL-14 led to the design of what was basically a reduced-scale version of the Tu-104. A smaller jet, with better short-field capability, and 44-seat, the original Tu-104 was scaled down by about three-quarters and powered by two new purpose-designed turbofans.

The prototype Tupolev Tu-124 was first flown in June 1960 and introduced aerodynamic and system refinements, plus the Soloviev D-20P twin-spool turbofans.

The Tu-124 entered service with Aeroflot on 2 October 1962, but the major production version was the 56-seat Tu-124V.

Variants included the Tu-124K and Tu-124K2 with de luxe seating for 36 and 22 passengers respectively.

About 100 were built, this number including three for CSA in Czechoslovakia and two for Interflug in East Germany, but Aeroflot has now retired its Tu-124s. A small number entered military service, and it is believed that some were used for research and test purposes. The NATO reporting name is 'Cookpot'.

Gallery

Versions:
Tu-124- serial variant with 44 seats
Tu-124- project for 48 or 52 seats
Tu-124- for 60 seats
Tu-124V- serial variant for 56 seats
Tu-124B- version with D-20P-125 engines
Tu-124K- saloon version
Tu-124TS
Tu-124SPS
Tu-124- VSTOL version
Tu-124Sh-1
Tu-124Sh-2
Tu-127- military transport

Tu-124B
Engines: 2 x Soloviev D-20P turbofans, 52.9kN
Max take-off weight: 38000 kg / 83776 lb
Empty weight: 22500 kg / 49604 lb
Wingspan: 25.55 m / 84 ft 10 in
Length: 30.58 m / 100 ft 4 in
Height: 8.08 m / 27 ft 6 in
Wing area: 119.0 sq.m / 1280.90 sq ft
Ceiling: 11700 m / 38400 ft
Range w/max.payload: 1220 km / 758 miles
Crew: 3
Passengers: 44-56