MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. Russian Helicopters (part of the state tech corporation Rostec) has completed additional tests of the import-substituting Mi-171A3 helicopter in extremely low temperatures in Yakutia, where the aircraft performed flights in temperatures down to -50 degrees Celsius, the state corporation said in a statement.

Specialists from the Mil & Kamov National Helicopter Center and the Russian Aviation Registration Office confirmed the stable operation of all helicopter systems and the aircraft capability to take off and land on drilling platforms in extremely low temperatures. The test results were submitted to the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) for appropriate amendments to the certification documentation. "Russian Helicopters specialists conducted 66 flights and 22 ground tests in the extreme cold of Yakutia. These tests confirm the aircraft’s performance and allow for an expanded temperature range for its use," Rostec noted.

CEO of Russian Helicopters Nikolay Kolesov emphasized that the Mi-171A3 is designed for flights in all climate zones. During the tests in Yakutia, the helicopter’s performance characteristics were assessed separately during takeoff and landing on a drilling platform in sub-zero temperatures. "The tests confirmed the reliability and safety of the Mi-171A3 and its suitability for use, including in the Russian Arctic and the Far East during winter conditions, Kolesov stated.

Previously, the Mi-171A3 was certified in a completely Russian configuration, featuring domestically produced avionics, hydraulics, safety systems, communications, ground collision avoidance system, and other equipment. The Mi-171A3 is a multi-purpose helicopter for cargo and passenger transportation, offshore operations, and search and rescue missions.