Paris. Experts of the Russian Helicopters Holding Company and United Engine Corporation (part of Rostec State Corporation) held a business meeting with representatives of the General Directorate for Civil Aviation (DGCAP) of Peru. The sides agreed on the procedure for validation of Mi-171A2 helicopter and VK-2500PS-03 engine. Peruvian aviation authorities plan to complete the helicopter certification in 2019.
As part of the validation, DGCAP representatives also plan to visit Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant and JSC “UEC-Klimov”, developers of Mi-171A2 helicopter and VK-2500PS-03 engine.
“Currently, Peru is the largest operator of Russian helicopters in Latin America. Over 100 civil and military machines are registered in this country. Operators are interested in fleet renewal. And when the Mi-171A2 certificate is validated by Peruvian aviation authorities, we will be able to start supplying this modern machine. The similar procedure is being conducted to certify Mi-171A2 in Brazil, which shows potential of the market in Latin America for our machines,” said Andrey Boginsky, Director General of Russian Helicopters.
Mi-171A2 is the most advanced model of the Mi-8/17 helicopter type. The helicopter has VK-2500PS-03 engines with a digital control system, and a more efficient X-shaped tail rotor and a new main rotor with composite blades with the improved airfoil shape.
Cruise and maximum speed of Mi-171A2 have increased by 10% compared to series-produced Mi-8/17 helicopters, while load-bearing capacity has increased by 25%. The helicopter may be effectively used around the clock, in highland conditions, at low and high temperatures, high humidity and over water.
The digital avionics set KBO-17 (“glass cabin”), including the navigation instrumentation and the system of general helicopter equipment with display data indication, allowed the company to reduce the crew to only two people. Video cameras provide a better view during external load operations. Modern terrain awareness and warning systems, airborne and obstacle collision avoidance systems improved safety.
The helicopter carries passengers and is offered in the transport, passenger and VIP versions.
“Latin America is a promising region for Rostec, and we are ready to offer our partners competitively priced high-quality solutions with further technology transfer. We offer our partners not an individual product, but a set of related services,” said Victor Kladov, Rostec’s Director for International Cooperation and Regional Policy. “I’m convinced that the Mi-171A2 validation will enhance and expand our cooperation in aviation and will make the helicopter attractive to potential customers in Peru and Latin America.”
In August 2017, the helicopter was certified by the Federal Air Transport Agency of the Russian Federation according to Category A providing for meeting the most stringent requirements to flight safety specified for civilian helicopters. In January 2018, tests were conducted successfully and showed that Mi-171A2 can be used at air temperatures up to -50 degrees Celsius.
