The MiG-23
Returning to more modern planes, the Mikoyan-Gurevich-23 was a Soviet jet which pioneered the “look-down/shoot-down” type of radar system. Like with the Albacore and its pilots, however, Russian pilots far preferred the previous generation of this fighter jet. This new iteration included a minuscule cockpit which hampered pilot visibility. Following the Cold War, the Mikoyan-Gurevich-23 headed for the aircraft graveyard, but its predecessor, the 21, continues to soar through the sky today!
The MiG 23
The Yak-42
This is one of the most hated planes those unfortunate enough to have had to fly one love to criticize. In fact, military personnel simply couldn’t believe that such a rickety and uncomfortable, poorly designed aircraft was still in operation in 2013! It was difficult even just trying to climb into the Yak-42, and once a pilot managed to squeeze themselves into the seat, it could, without warning, suddenly fold forward. Then there was the rear stairway which never stopped rumbling during flight, seems to be about to fly off.
The Yak42
