The LMS-901 "Baikal" aircraft underwent a test flight according to a special program, during which the pilot tested the aircraft for stalling, spinning, and flying at extremely low speeds. Footage of the tests was shown by the Zvezda TV channel in the "Voennaya Priemka" program.

During the flight, the crew practiced several complex modes. At an altitude of about 700 meters, the "Baikal" performed an imitation of an approach with maintaining a low speed, descending to a minimum value, and then going around for a second attempt. This mode allows evaluating the aircraft's behavior in conditions where the flight speed is close to critical.

For "Baikal," the ability to fly confidently at low speeds has practical significance. The LMS-901 is being created for local airlines and operation from small airfields, and its potential tasks include passenger and cargo transportation, forest fire monitoring, and other specialized work. In such scenarios, not only cruising speed and range are important, but also the ability to safely take off and land on limited sites.

The tests are conducted with a domestic power plant based on the VK-800 turboprop engine and the AV-901 propeller.

The first flight tests of the "Baikal" with this power plant began in December 2025: then the aircraft reached 210 km/h and climbed to 400 meters, and specialists confirmed the stability and controllability of the aircraft.

At the same time, critical mode tests are not a new task for "Baikal." Even at the stage of aerodynamic research, TsAGI specialists tested the aircraft model at high angles of attack and in spin mode to prepare recommendations for subsequent flight tests.