Russia’s Mi-171A2 Certified for Export in India, Columbia

Russian Helicopters’ Mi-171A2 has received a certification validating the rotorcraft’s export in India and Columbia.

“The Department of Civil Aviation of India has confirmed that the standard design of the Mi-171A2 helicopter meets the requirements of the country's civil aviation (CAR). A validated type certificate for the Mi-171A2 has also been issued by Colombia's Special Civil Aviation Administration Unit (UAEAC),” the company said in a statement Friday.

In October, the helicopter’s new VK-2500PS-03 turboshaft engine (modification of VK-2500 engine) was certified to power the Mi-171A2 by India. The main design difference between the two engines is the presence of a digital control system such as FADEC in the new one. The overhaul and designated resource of this engine is two times higher than that of its predecessors. VK-2500PS-03 gives helicopters fundamentally new opportunities for their operation in high-altitude regions and areas with a hot climate. Its installation on a civilian Mi-171A2 helicopter is considered as a basic application of the engine.

The first of these helicopters meant for New Delhi has already been built at the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, the company said.

Russian Helicopters aims to get the validation in China, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Peru and several other countries.

Mi-171A2 design has 80 upgrades against the basic model, the Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopter family. The chopper has digital controls, and is distinguished by a new carrying system against Mi-8/Mi-17 family.

The company claims to have increased the maximum speed and payload of the Mi-171A2 by 10% and 25% respectively, owing to the X-shaped anti-torque rotor and the main rotor with composite blades of upgraded aerodynamic shape.