The first flight of a prototype of the LMS-901 "Baikal" light multipurpose aircraft with a Russian VK-800 engine and AV-901 propeller took place at the airfield of the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (JSC "UZGA"). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia.
During the flight, the aircraft reached a speed of 210 km/h and an altitude of 400 meters.
The developers assessed the engine's stability in all modes, its acceleration (ability to quickly and smoothly increase thrust) and throttling, and fuel supply. The pilots stated that the LMS-901 "Baikal" flight was normal, and the aircraft with the new power plant proved to be stable and well-controlled.
The start of flight tests of the Russian power plant with the VK-800 engine and AV-901 propeller will allow the implementation of projects to create light aircraft.
The representative of the ministry called the tests an important event for the aviation industry. Engines in this power range have not been produced in Russia for several decades, Abramenkov explained.
About the VK-800 engine
The turboprop engine is being developed by engineers at JSC "UZGA" in Yekaterinburg. It is suitable not only for the "Baikal", but also for the UTS-800, LMS-192 "Osvey" and the re-motorization of localized L-410 aircraft. Its power varies from 807 hp to 870 hp.
