Russian Helicopters lands first export order for Mi-171A2

Russian Helicopters has signed a contract with India’s Vectra Group to deliver a single Mil Mi-171A2 medium utility rotorcraft. This first export contract for the type was signed at Dubai Air Show in November.

The helicopter is to be delivered in 2018. The contract also includes an option to purchase one more Mi-171A2.

Russian Helicopters CEO Andrey Boginsky expressed hope that successful certification of the type in India would help promote it in other countries. In particular, the manufacturer reportedly held talks on the subject with a Kazakh customer in August.

The Mi-171A2 is powered by VK-2500PS-03 digitally controlled engines. It is a modernized convertible passenger/cargo version of the Mi-8/Mi-17 family, incorporating over 80 modifications as compared to the baseline. The Federal Air Transport Agency certified the Mi-171A2 in August 2017.

As previously reported, UTair Aviation will receive two such helicopters for operational testing, which is to begin in November. The carrier will also help the manufacturer optimize the operating manuals, as well as providing logistics support to distribution. The type will also be promoted by State Transport Leasing Company.