The fifth prototype LMS-901 “Baikal”, identified as No. 0005 and was the third airworthy unit, successfully performing its first test flight at the airfield of the Ural Plant of Civil Aviation (UZGA), part of the Russian Union of Mechanical Engineers.
The trial took place on the evening of February 22. Equipped with a Russian VK-800 turboprop engine and AV-901 propeller, the prototype completed one full rotation over the airfield before landing normally, marking further progress in the aircraft’s certification program.
Prior to the start of flight tests, UZGA implemented a number of technical modifications to the new prototype, including:
- Reconfigured the front of the cockpit to meet ergonomics and safety requirements during emergency landings
- Reinforcement of the main landing gear structure
- Wing mounting angle changes
The change is designed to eliminate the tendency for the landing gear to prematurely separate during takeoff in high wind conditions. All modifications will undergo additional evaluation, both on the ground and in flight.
After the maiden flight, specialists began ground certification tests on the aircraft’s wiring. The aim is to verify the compliance of the installation with the established technical requirements.
The results of observations and recommendations from testing will be incorporated into the project until the LMS-901 “Baikal” certification process is completed.
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An-2 Replacement and Focus on Regional Routes
The LMS-901 “Baikal” is a multifunctional light aircraft designed to operate on regional routes and carry out a variety of air missions, including passenger transport, cargo and special operations.
This model was developed by order of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade as a replacement for the legendary aircraft An-2 in remote areas of the country.
Key Specifications
- Capacity: up to 9 passengers
- Carrying capacity: up to 1,500 kg
- Maximum mileage: 1,500 km
- Maximum cruising speed: 250 km/h
Mesin VK-800
The VK-800 turboprop engine, also developed by UZGA, is intended for several national aviation programs, including:
- LMS-901 “Baikal”
- UTS-800 (training aircraft)
- LMS-192 “Osvei” (Russia–Belarus regional program)
- Reauthorization of L-410 aircraft
Maximum power ranges from 807 to 870 horsepower, depending on the application.
First flight of prototype No. 0005 is an important step in Russia’s strategy to localize aircraft components, especially in the engine segment, amidst international restrictions and efforts to increase the industry’s independence.
New Russian aircraft prototype makes first flight at UZGA
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Source and image: Telegram @uwca_ru. This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
