The new LMS-901 "Baikal" aircraft will by no means replace Soviet An-2 biplanes in remote regions of Russia due to design features and runway requirements. This was stated by the President of the Northern Sea Route Association, retired Rear Admiral Vladimir Dudko.
The Association believes that "Baikal" will not become a full-fledged alternative to An-2, as it is not suitable for operation in remote regions with unpaved landing sites and will not land on snow-covered ground or ice.
Dudko added that most operators doubt the imminent start of "Baikal" deliveries.
According to him, if the LMS-901 does fly, the aircraft creators should immediately budget a realistic amount for restoring an adequate navigation system and airfield basing.
Earlier, "Pervyy Tekhnicheskiy" conducted a direct comparison of the characteristics of An-2 and "Baikal". The Soviet biplane won with a score of 2:1.
