Russian Helicopters has delivered the first Mil Mi-26T heavy transport helicopter to Kazakhstan's emergencies ministry following overhaul of the former military aircraft by the manufacturer.
The aircraft, and a sister example, had been in storage for 20 years before being brought back into service by the ministry, the first time the type has been in civil operation in Kazakhstan.
Russian Helicopters
The helicopter was delivered to the ministry after a general overhaul and modifications at Russian Helicopters's Novosibirsk repair facility. It had initially been transported to the plant in May 2012 on a 1,080nm (2,000km) journey in the external sling of another Mi-26T.
Modifications included updated avionics and systems, alongside fit out of the cargo area to allow the helicopter's use for fire fighting and evacuation missions.
The second Mi-26T is anticipated to return to Kazakhstan following its overhaul in the coming weeks.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
