The fifth prototype of the LMS-901 “Baikal,” identified as No. 0005 and the third airworthy example, completed its first test flight at the airfield of the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UZGA), part of the Union of Russian Mechanical Engineers.
The test took place on the evening of February 22. Equipped with the Russian VK-800 turboprop engine and AV-901 propeller, the prototype performed a full circuit over the airfield before landing normally, marking another milestone in the aircraft’s certification program.
Before the start of flight testing, UZGA implemented a series of technical modifications to the new prototype, including:
- Reconfiguration of the forward cockpit section to meet ergonomics and emergency landing safety requirements
- Reinforcement of the main landing gear supports
- Adjustment of the wing installation angle
The changes were designed to eliminate the tendency for premature landing gear separation during takeoff under strong wind conditions. All modifications will undergo additional evaluations, both on the ground and in flight.
Following the maiden flight, specialists began ground certification tests of the aircraft’s wiring network. The objective is to verify compliance of the installation with established technical requirements.
Observations and resulting recommendations will be incorporated into the project through the completion of the LMS-901 “Baikal” certification process.
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An-2 Replacement Focused on Regional Routes
The LMS-901 “Baikal” is a light multifunctional aircraft designed to operate on regional routes and perform a wide range of missions, including passenger transport, cargo operations, and special missions.
Developed under commission from the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, the model was conceived as a replacement for the veteran An-2 in remote regions of the country.
Main Specifications
- Capacity: up to 9 passengers
- Payload: up to 1,500 kg
- Maximum range: 1,500 km
- Maximum cruise speed: 250 km/h
VK-800 Engine
The VK-800 turboprop, also developed by UZGA, is intended for multiple national aviation programs, including:
- LMS-901 “Baikal”
- UTS-800 (training aircraft)
- LMS-192 “Osvei” (Russian-Belarusian regional program)
- Re-engining of L-410 aircraft
Maximum power ranges between 807 and 870 horsepower, depending on the application.
The first flight of prototype No. 0005 represents a significant step in Russia’s strategy to localize aircraft components, particularly in the engine segment, amid international restrictions and the pursuit of greater industrial autonomy.
Nieuw Russisch vliegtuigprototype maakt eerste vlucht bij 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 assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
