The fifth prototype (aircraft number 0005) and third flight-ready aircraft of LMS-901 “Baikal” successfully completed its first test flight at the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UZGA) airfield. UZGA is a company affiliated with the Russian Mechanical Industry Union.
The test flight took place on the night of February 22nd. The prototype, equipped with a Russian-made VK-800 turboprop engine and an AV-901 propeller, circled above the airfield and then landed normally, marking another step forward in the aircraft certification program.
Prior to flight testing, UZGA applied the following technical improvements to the new prototype:
- Redesign of the cockpit forward structure to meet ergonomics and safety requirements during emergency landings
- Reinforcement of main landing gear support structure
- Wing mounting angle adjustment
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These changes are designed to address the tendency for landing gear to separate prematurely during takeoff in high wind conditions. All improvements will be further evaluated through ground and flight testing.
After the first flight, experts began ground certification testing of the aircraft’s wiring network. This is to ensure that the installation meets the specified technical requirements.
Observations and recommendations made during the testing process will be reflected in the design until the certification process for LMS-901 “Baikal” is completed.
An-2 replacement model… Focus on regional route operations
LMS-901 “Baikal” is a light multi-purpose aircraft designed to operate regional routes and perform various missions. It is capable of transporting passengers, transporting cargo, and performing special missions.
This model was developed under the order of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade and is a veteran model that has been operated in remote areas. An-2It was designed to replace .
Main specifications
- Capacity: Up to 9 people
- Maximum payload: 1,500 kg
- Maximum range: 1,500km
- Maximum cruising speed: 250 km/h
VK-800 engine
The VK-800 turboprop engine was also developed by UZGA and will be applied to several domestic aviation programs, including:
- LMS-901 “Baikal”
- UTS-800 (trainer)
- LMS-192 “Osvei” (Russia-Belarus joint regional aircraft program)
- L-410 aircraft re-engineering project
Maximum output ranges from 807 to 870 horsepower depending on the application.
The first flight of Prototype 0005 is considered an important milestone in Russia’s strategy to promote local production of aircraft parts, especially engines, amid international restrictions.
New Russian aircraft prototype makes first flight at UZGA
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Source and image: Telegram @uwca_ru. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
