RuAviation

Russian Helicopters, a state-owned holding company, has completed the delivery of two light multipurpose Ansat helicopters to Kolyma Aviation in the Magadan Region. This Far Eastern operator is the first in the Russian Far North to introduce this helicopter type into service. One aircraft was delivered under a contract with Gazprombank Leasing, while the second was supplied directly to Kolyma Aviation, according to the holding company.

The unique requirements of northern operations influenced the livery of one of the helicopters. The aircraft features a custom paint scheme inspired by orcas—marine mammals frequently observed in the waters of Magadan’s bays during migration. This design approach was previously used on Mi-8MTV-1 medium helicopters operating in the same region.

Prior to acquiring the Ansat, Kolyma Aviation’s fleet consisted of heavy Mi-8 series helicopters and the modern Mi-38. Several of these aircraft also sport the orca-themed livery, reinforcing the airline’s corporate identity.

The Ansat’s technical specifications are well-suited for Arctic missions. The helicopter is certified for reliable operation in temperatures as low as –49°F (–45°C), as demonstrated during specialized testing in Yakutia in 2017. The aircraft is capable of operating from unprepared landing sites with minimal dimensions.

The delivered helicopters are equipped with a fully integrated medical suite, including patient vital signs monitoring systems, ventilators, and telemedicine data transmission equipment. The cabin layout accommodates one patient and two medical personnel.

According to a representative of Rostec State Corporation, air medical services remain the primary application for the Ansat in Russia. “The National Air Ambulance Service operates 37 Ansat helicopters out of a total civilian fleet of 60 in Russia,” the company reported. Additionally, 23 Ansat helicopters have been exported: 19 to Zimbabwe, three to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and one to Turkmenistan.

The Ansat’s twin-engine configuration allows for the transport of up to seven passengers or a payload of 2,650 lbs (1,200 kg). The standard range is 250 miles (400 km) without auxiliary fuel tanks. Production of this model was suspended in 2022 following the cessation of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207K engine deliveries. The issue is being addressed through the development of a domestic powerplant, the VK-650V engine.

Kazan Helicopter Plant has completed preparations for a localized Ansat variant powered by Russian turboshaft engines. The VK-650V received type certification earlier this year. In addition to the new engines, the updated version features domestically produced cabin components, an automatic flight control system, steering actuators, and avionics.

Industry media reported in early August that Kazan Helicopter Plant has begun testing the Ansat equipped with VK-650V engines. On July 29, the prototype performed a hover test—vertical lift without horizontal movement. The United Engine Corporation’s press service confirmed the start of engine integration trials, with full flight testing, including horizontal flight, scheduled in the near future.