Ka-62 helicopter takes its first flight

Ka-62 first flight Ka-62 makes the long-anticipated first flight (Photo by Russian Helicopters)

A prototype of the medium-sized multi-use helicopter Ka-62 took its first flight on 28 April at the factory of the Progress Arsenyev Aviation Company, located in Russia’s Far East.

During the course of the first few tests, the helicopter successfully completed a 10-minute flight in addition to several maneuvers.

Flight tests of the Ka-62 were begun far behind schedule—in the beginning the first flight of the rotorcraft was planned for December 2014, but was later rescheduled for the first half of 2015. At that time there was word that the Ka-62 would not be certified until 2017. The reason for the holdup in the schedule was an incomplete account of risks and the high level of innovation of the aircraft, according to deputy general director of production of Helicopters of Russia Andrey Shibitov.

Development of the Ka-62 was launched in 1992. The aircraft is planned to be equipped with two Ardiden 3G turboshaft engines, with 1775 horsepower at takeoff. According to data from the aircraft’s manufacturer, the maximum carrying capacity of the aircraft is expected to make up 2,200-2,500 kg, while the maximum takeoff weight will be 6,500-6,800 kg. The helicopter will have a maximum speed of 310 km/h and a cruising speed of 290 km/h. The range of the craft is set at 720 km with use of the main tank, and 1,135 km with additional tanks.

The engines are not the only foreign components used in the manufacture of the Ka-62; other components, including the aircraft’s transmission, are also produced abroad. It is expected that the foreign parts will be replaced by domestic ones in the future.

According to the most recent reports, three prototypes are being prepared for testing.

The Ka-62 is expected to compete with foreign types with similar takeoff weight, including Airbus Helicopters’ H160 (maximum takeoff weight 6,000 kg, payload is yet to be determined), the AgustaWestland AW139 (maximum takeoff weight: 6,400-6,800 kg, payload—2650- 3000 kg) and partly with the Sikorsky S-76 (5,306 kg and 2,037 kg, respectively).

  • 7
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
Russian Aviation Insider
Newsletter
Powered by Air Transport Observer, Russia & CIS’ premier information provider on commercial aviation with a 20-year legacy, Russian Aviation Insider provides you with timely and reliable business news, insights and analysis on commercial aviation all around CIS.
Sign up for our free Newsletter and never miss:
  • Airline Business news and analysis
  • Aerospace Industry updates
  • Traffic statistic data and trends
  • Airport, MRO, Leasing and other related businesses
  • Appointments and promotions

Get relevant data from reliable industry sources!

1 Trackbacks & Pingbacks

  1. EASA certifies engine for Russian Ka-62 helicopter - Russian aviation news

Leave a comment