Russian Helicopters Begins Production of First Mi-171A3 Prototype

(31 Oct 2021) Russian Helicopters has started assembling the first prototype of the Mi-171A3 offshore helicopter at the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant.

The Mi-171A3 has a number of significant upgrades when compared to the Mi-171A2, including a new airframe that integrates a crash-resistant fuel system into the cargo bay floor, and modernized avionics, upgraded for offshore operations and flights in the Arctic.

The model also features widespread use of composite materials, which significantly reduce its weight.

“The development of Mi-171A3 involves extensive cooperation between Rostec's enterprises,” said Anatoly Serdyukov, Industrial Director of Aviation at Rostec. “The nose part of the helicopter and side panels from polymer composite materials are manufactured at Progress Arsenyev Aviation Company, the cargo bay floor is manufactured by Kazan Helicopters. The new modification was designed for offshore operations in oil and gas enterprises, so it meets the strictest requirements in the field of flight safety and air navigation. We plan to obtain a type certificate and start serial production in 2022.”

The Mi-171A3 offshore helicopter will meet the latest international safety requirements, including the international IOGP standard developed by oil companies for offshore operation of helicopters.

“We have modernized our production process, allowing us to launch the assembly line for the new Mi-171A3 offshore helicopter,” said Andrey Boginsky, Director General of Russian Helicopters. “The equipment for the new helicopter was manufactured and installed using coordinate-measuring machines and laser trackers, which will significantly increase the quality and accuracy of the assembly. We are planning to present the first prototype at the MAKS-2021 air show.”

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