Russian Helicopters obtained a type certificate for the medium utility Mi-171A2 helicopter in a convertible configuration from the Federal Air Transport Agency of the Russian Federation (Rosaviatsia). This document opens the door for helicopter deliveries to commercial customers.
The type certificate certifies that the Mi-171A2 developed at Moscow Mil Helicopter Plant may safely transport passengers and cargoes day and night in standard and adverse weather conditions, including over water areas both as per VFR and IFR.
Moreover, the document proves that the helicopter may be operated along international air routes. The certification opens the way to serial production and deliveries of Mi-171A2 helicopters to Russian and foreign customers.
The Mi-171A2 has been certified as per category A, which stipulates meeting the most stringent safety requirements imposed on civil helicopters. In particular, one of the requirements is the ability to continue OEI flight with the maximum take-off weight.
“Obtaining a type certificate is one of the most important events of the project and means the opportunity to deliver this helicopter to commercial operators. The Mi-171A2 offers ample opportunities to renew [the] helicopter fleet of Russian and foreign operators, who have experience in operating Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters,” said Andrey Boginsky, director general of Russian Helicopters.
Flight tests of the Mi-171A2, where four prototypes were engaged, began in 2014. Another two prototypes participated in static tests. Since the beginning of 2017, the Mi-171A2 helicopter has performed more than 200 flights.
Performed activities resulted in the completion of tests in six programs, with the drawing up of certificates of additional certification tests. In addition, during the MAKS-2017 aviation and space event in July, the helicopter performed eight demonstration flights simultaneously with the test program.
A new rotor system is the one of the most important distinctive features of the Mi-171A2 as compared to Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters. The helicopter is equipped with a more efficient X-shape tail rotor and a new main rotor with all-composite blades of improved aerodynamic design.
Therefore, aerodynamics alone contributed to the increase of the Mi-171A2 main rotor thrust by more than 700kg, which improved the whole range of flight and technical performance. The Mi-171A2 entered serial production at Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant.
August 21, 2017
