Second Mi-171A2 prototype starts flight testing

Russian Helicopters has started flight testing of a second prototype of the Mi-171A2 at Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant.

ALSO READ: Russian Helicopters starts Mi-171A2 test flights

The second Mi-171A2 has a power plant comprising a full FADEC VK-2500PS-03 engine and an auxiliary power plant by Safir, which enables the engine to be started at altitudes of up to 6,000m.

The use of composite blades, as well as upgrades to the swashplate and bushing, have reduced the total weight of the main rotor and increased thrust by 700kg.

These upgrades have increased the helicopter’s total take-off weight by 1,000kg. The maximum cargo load on an external sling has also increased by 25%, to 5,000kg.

Another innovation is the KBO-17 avionics suite, which enables the helicopter to fly safely around the clock, including in poor weather conditions.

Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant is a subsidiary of Russian Helicopters.

Russian Helicopters Mi-171A2

Russian Helicopters Mi-171A2

Terry Spruce

Terry is Senior News Editor and writes for both Corporate Jet Investor and Helicopter Investor. He is also responsible for our helicopter guides. Terry has been an aviation enthusiast since the early 1970s. He is a lapsed Private Pilot and ex-Piper Cherokee owner. He has flown a number of light aircraft and is comfortable sitting in the co-pilot's seat or the back of any aircraft. Before moving to journalism he was a banker for 20 years. You can contact him at: terry@corporatejetinvestor.com or follow him on twitter @Terry_Spruce

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