Russian aircraft manufacturer, Ural Works, demonstrates to head of Rosaviation the proper way a controversial "Baikal" helicopter should fly.
Revised Article:
Flying High: The Current Status of the "Baikal" Aircraft
Dmitry Yadrov, the head of Rosaviya, recently paid a visit to the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UZGA) to inspect their progress on the "Baikal" aircraft - a project that's been in the works for years. He got a peek at the motor-testing station, the assembly of a powerful engine, and even caught a flight of the second experimental model, which has been causing a stir for six long years [1].
Yadrov acknowledged the plant's upcoming tasks, expressing optimism and stressing the eagerness of the public for these aircraft [1]. The authorities, for their part, promised not to slow down the certification process. Whether they discussed specifics, such as manufacturing schedules, engine production, or funding issues, remains unknown [1].
Six Years of Promises: The Chronicles of Delaying the "Baikal"
UZGA began working on the "Baikal" in 2019, with serial production expected to start in 2024 and deliveries slated for 2025 [2]. However, deadlines have shifted.
In March 2025, the plant reported having assembled the first three domestic aircraft. Yet, they hadn't yet manufactured a domestically-produced engine [2]. Later in the same year, the Ministry of Trade and Industry paid the plant an additional 10.4 billion rubles for "Baikal" development [2].
A half year later, Vice-Premier Yuri Trutnev announced the project's closure, but this was quickly denied by both the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Finance. They affirmed that UZGA would continue working on the "Baikal" according to a contract signed in April 2025 [2].
New head of Sverdlovsk Region, Denis Pasler, vowed that the Ural "Baikal" would be completed on time - by the end of 2026 [2]. Here's hoping they can make it happen!
[1] Rosaviya's Head Visits UZGA, Press-service of UZGA[2] Chronicles of Unfulfilled Promises: The Story of the "Baikal"
- The ongoing development of the "Baikal" aircraft, with its delays and promises, has prompted intense curiosity in the news, reflecting the public's keen interest in the progress of technology and aerospace industry, particularly in the competitive landscape of finance and industry.
- Despite the head of Rosaviya's recent visit to UZGA and the authorities' commitment to expedite the certification process, concerns about manufacturing schedules, engine production, and funding issues persist, adding another layer to the complex web of news and speculation surrounding the future of the "Baikal" project.
