The low-wing all-wooden aircraft was designed by Jaroslav Lonek. Two prototypes, with different engines, were presented in April 1935. These were subjected to an extensive test program.
The Z-XII, equipped with a 33/ Zlin Persy II engine emerged as the winner from the tests. The Z-212 was an improved version, equipped with a Walter Mikron engine. The aircraft could come with an open cockpit or with a cockpit hood. It was a very popular aircraft and was exported to many countries.Production of the Z-212 ran under German supervision after the occupation of Czechoslovakia. The German Luftwaffe operated Z-XIIs and Z-212s until 1943, and about 20 Z-XIIs went to Slovakia. One Z-212 was captured by the Americans at the end of World War II. It was later used for sightseeing flights. Another Z-XII survived the war, being disassembled into parts in Otrokovice. It was later rebuilt and flew with the registration OK-ZJD.
A total of 201 Z-XIIs and 58 (other sources mention 51) Z-212s were built. Replicas of Z-XII and Z-212 have been built.
Zlín Z-XII is on display.http://www.aviationmuseum.eu/World/Europe/Serbia/Belgrade/Muzej_Ratnog_Vazduhoplovstva.htm
Egypt
Hungary
Brazil
Japan
Italy
Romania
Sweden
South Africa
United States
Germany