Russian manufacturer Irkut has leased a Beriev Be-200 amphibian to Italy's civil protection department. The deal, which will see the twinjet used for firefighting duties until the end of the fire season, marks a major breakthrough for Irkut in its efforts to promote the Be-200. The aircraft's type certificate was amended earlier this month to include additional avionics stipulated by the European Aviation Safety Agency, including VOR/DME, and 8.33kHz-spacing radio, writes Kate Sarsfield.
The aircraft will be operated by firefighting equipment operator Sorem and flown by Italian or Russian crews. Italy may buy the aircraft once the lease has expired, Irkut says, citing potential demand for up to 10 aircraft.
Italian interest in the ZMKB Progress D-436-powered Be-200ChS, developed for Russia's ministry for emergencies, prompted Beriev to delay its plans for a Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR715-engined version. The aircraft is not expected to enter service until 2008, says Beriev general director Victor Kobzev. Production is at full capacity for the ministry order.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY HOWARD GETHIN
Source: Flight International
