After criticism and delays, the "Baikal" aircraft began a new phase of flight tests

The LMS-901 "Baikal" aircraft successfully completed a test flight with updated measuring equipment, which became an important step before the start of its certification. The tests were conducted by the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UZGA) at its own airfield on May 22, 2026.

The flight lasted 15 minutes at an altitude of about 300 meters. During the check, specialists evaluated the operation of the aircraft systems, power plant, and onboard equipment. No issues were recorded after the flight.

The "Baikal" was tested in a typical configuration with a Russian VK-800 turboprop engine and an AV-901 propeller. Before the flight, engineers completed a series of ground checks, including frequency tests, cable network testing, and vibration load control on engine pipelines. Additional sensors were also installed on board to record flight parameters and system operation.

According to test pilot Alexey Yazynin, the flight went strictly according to the program, and all units and systems operated normally.

The next stage will be full-fledged flight tests, during which developers will assess the effectiveness of the modifications and the aircraft's behavior in various modes.

For the "Baikal" program, this is one of the key steps towards certification and the launch of serial production.