Russian Helicopters (part of Rostec) has initiated certification of the Mi-171 helicopter with VK-2500-03 engines in China. The relevant application has been submitted to the aviation authorities of China.

The type certificate for the Mi-171 helicopter with advanced VK-2500-03 engines needs recognition in China because Chinese customers have expressed a strong interest in these machines. Engines of this type have been introduced into the Mi-171 helicopters considering the strong need of operators and potential customers to expand the operating range of the helicopter and improve its aircraft performance.

“The use of VK-2500-03 engines in Mi-171 helicopters is particularly important for external sling load operations at high altitudes and in a hot climate. If the Civil Aviation Administration of China recognizes the type certificate for the Mi-171 helicopter with the new engine, it will make us more competitive on the Chinese market,” said Andrey Boginsky, CEO of Russian Helicopters, during China Helicopter Exposition.

In 2016 the representatives of the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant and Russian Helicopters presented the certified Mi-171 helicopter with VK-2500-03 engines for the first time at China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition held in Zhuhai.

The VK-2500-03 engine is very powerful in any flight mode and at any altitude due to heat-resistant materials and improved design. The introduction of the BARK-78 digital automatic control system makes it possible to run the engine more properly, ensures closer control over operations in all modes and makes the operation simpler. The use of VK-2500-03 engines in Mi-171 helicopters will ensure higher load capacity and increase the absolute and static ceiling. Besides, greater available engine power in an emergency mode ensures greater safety during the flight with one running engine.

Middle-class helicopters manufactured by the enterprises of Russian Helicopters Holding Company have been supplied to China for many years. They have proved to be reliable during search and rescue missions when handling emergencies and fighting fires. At present, the total number of Mi-171 helicopters manufactured by JSC Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant and supplied to Chinese companies and organizations is about 200.

The Mi-171 helicopter has been designed by Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant and is manufactured by the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant; both plants belong to Russian Helicopters Holding Company. The helicopter may be used for transporting VIP passengers in greater comfort, carrying passengers, transporting freight weighing up to 4,000 tons inside its cabin or on an external sling, as well as for fire-fighting and search and rescue missions. At present, over 1,000 helicopters which are various versions of Mi-171 are used in Central and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the CIS.

Press release and picture Russian Helicopter