Mil Mi-38
Mil · Russia · first flew 2003 · helicopter
The Mi-38 is a medium multipurpose transport helicopter intended to bridge the gap between the Mi-8/17 and the heavy Mi-26, with a six-blade rotor and modern avionics.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 19.95 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Six-blade composite main rotor
- Large glazed cockpit and cabin windows
- Rear clamshell doors, tall tail fin
Look for the six-blade main rotor, an extensively glazed cockpit, square cabin windows along the fuselage, and rear clamshell doors beneath a tall swept fin.
Specifications
- The Mil Mi-38 has a length of 19.95 m (65 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 21.1 m (69 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 300 km/h (186 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed from the 1980s as a joint Mil-Eurocopter study, the first prototype flew in 2003, initially with Pratt & Whitney Canada engines before switching to Russian Klimov TV7-117 powerplants. Certification came in the 2010s after a protracted programme.
Variants
The type is offered in passenger, cargo, VIP and offshore-support configurations, with a militarised transport version for the Russian forces. Different engine and interior fits distinguish the sub-types.
Where you'll see it
Russian civil and military operators are the primary users, with the helicopter marketed for Arctic and offshore work. It has no UK service, competing internationally with the AW139 and Super Puma class.
Related aircraft
- Mil Mi-34
- Mil Mi-28
- Mi-26 Halo
- Mi-24D (Hind-D)
- Bell/Agusta BA609
- Changhe Z-10
- AgustaWestland AW109S Grand
- AgustaWestland AW139
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