Russian institute to re-engine Antonov biplanes for Mongolian carrier

Operations of Antonov biplanes have been suspended in Mongolia for some time now The TVS-2MS turboprop version runs on kerosene rather than gasoline (Leonid Faerberg / Transport-photo.com)

Siberian Aeronautical Research Institute (SibNIA) has been approached by MIAT Mongolian Airlines to re-engine the Mongolian national carrierr’s Antonov An-2 biplanes to the TVS-2MS version (which also features a more aerodynamic engine cowling and interior upgrades).

Speaking to Russian Aviation Insider, SibNIA Director Vladimir Barsuk expressed hope that the first Mongolian TVS-2MS will fly before year-end. The carrier has some 20 aircraft to be upgraded.

A joint project has been launched for the purpose, and work has already commenced. Initially, the Mongolian An-2s will be modernized at MIAT’s base; the airline plans to eventually find a Mongolian MRO provider that would become accredited as an An-2 maintenance organization, including the approval to upgrade the biplanes to TVS-MS standard.

Barsuk does not rule out the possibility of a joint venture with the future Mongolian provider that would serve other An-2 operators in the region.

SibNIA first announced plans to set up an An-2 modernization business in Mongolia in May this year, when it took two TVS-2MSs to that country for a roadshow. The institute was promoting the type as a solution for agriculture, mining, medevac, and other roles.

An-2 operations have been suspended in Mongolia because the aircraft’s orriginal single piston engine runs on gasoline. The TVS-2MS is powered by the kerosene-fired Honeywell TPE331 turboprop.

  • 19
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
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. The first Mongolian-built TVS-2MS to fly in April - Russian aviation news

Leave a comment