The fifth prototype of the LMS-901 “Baikal” aircraft, designated as No. 0005 and the third airworthy example, made its first test flight at the airfield of the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UZGA), which is part of the Union of Engineering Enterprises of Russia.
The exam took place in the evening of February 22. Equipped with a Russian VK-800 turboprop engine and AV-901 propeller, the prototype performed a complete circuit over the airport before making a standard landing, marking the next step in the aircraft’s certification program.
Before flight testing began, UZGA made a number of technical modifications to the new prototype, including:
- Redesign of the front part of the cabin in order to meet the requirements for ergonomics and safety during an emergency landing
- Reinforcement of the main chassis beams
- Wing installation angle adjustments
These changes are intended to eliminate the tendency for the landing gear to separate prematurely when taking off in strong winds. All modifications will undergo further evaluation both on the ground and in flight.
After the inaugural flight, specialists began ground certification tests of the aircraft’s cable network. The aim is to verify the compliance of the installation with the prescribed technical requirements.
Observations and recommendations resulting from the tests will be incorporated into the project until the completion of the LMS-901 “Baikal” certification process.
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Replacement for An-2 and focus on regional lines
The LMS-901 “Baikal” is a light multi-role aircraft designed for operation on regional routes and a wide range of missions, including the transport of passengers, cargo and special operations.
The model was developed by order of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation as a replacement for the legendary one An-2 in remote regions of the country.
Main technical data
- Capacity: up to 9 passengers
- Payload: up to 1,500 kg
- Maximum range: 1,500 km
- Maximum cruising speed: 250 km/h
Engine VK-800
The VK-800 turboprop engine, also under development by UZGA, is intended for several national aviation programs, including:
- LMS-901 “Baikal”
- UTS-800 (trainer aircraft)
- LMS-192 “Osvei” (Russian-Belarusian regional program)
- Reengineering of L-410 aircraft
Maximum output varies between 807 and 870 horsepower, depending on application.
The first flight of prototype No. 0005 represents a significant step in Russia’s strategy to localize the production of aircraft components, especially in the area of engines, in the context of international restrictions and the pursuit of greater industrial autonomy.
New Russian aircraft prototype makes first flight at UZGA
Source and footage: Telegram @uwca_ru pic.twitter.com/GBFIPUtGCp
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Source and images: Telegram @uwca_ru. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
