Story ID: 
Russian Helicopters Advances Mi-171E2, Ansat programs
By: Mark Huber
Caption: MI-171E2 wrapped up a 45-flight, 50-hour test campaign, while an Ansat configured for EMS operations is in the throes of Chinese validation.
Word Count: 213
Two Russian Helicopters civil helicopter programs took steps forward with the conclusion of flight tests for the Mi-171E2 and the pursuit of new validations for the Ansat light twin, the company announced.

Tests of the Mi-171E2 twin were completed after a 45-flight/50-hour campaign. The new generation of Mi-17/171 series helicopter is quieter and offers improved efficiency at high altitudes, carrying capacity, speed, climbing ability, directional control reserve. In addition, the helicopter has increased main rotor thrust, better controllability and maneuverability, and significant power reserve in various flight modes. 

“The new engines and rotor system of Mi-171Е2 offer improved opportunities for using the helicopter at high altitudes with high air temperature, and therefore I’m sure that it will be widely used in high-mountain and hot-climate conditions,” said Andrey Boginsky, Russian Helicopters CEO. The Mi-171E2 features VK-2500PS-03 engines with Fadec, a new composite main rotor system and X-shaped tail rotor, an upgraded body, modified tail and keel beams, and a larger stabilizer.

Separately, Russian Helicopters announced that it is pursuing Chinese CAAC certification validation of the Kazan Helicopters Ansat light twin configured for EMS operations. In addition to China, Russian Helicopters is pursuing Ansat certification approvals in Brazil, Mexico, and Canada.