PZL SM-2
WSK PZL-Świdnik · Poland · first flew 1959 · helicopter
The PZL SM-2 was a Polish light utility helicopter, an enlarged development of the licence-built Mil Mi-1, produced by WSK PZL-Świdnik.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Detachable closed patient capsules could be fitted on either side of the fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Enlarged five-seat cabin extended forward of the Mi-1 layout
- Two wide side doors that slide rearwards
- Detachable closed patient capsules could be fitted on either side of the fuselage
It resembles the Mi-1 but has a larger cabin extended towards the front and two wide rearward-sliding side doors. It has a single radial piston engine.
Specifications
- The PZL SM-2 has a length of 12.08 m (40 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 14.3 m (47 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 170 km/h (106 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Work began in 1957 to modernise the Mi-1 with a five-seat cabin and side-by-side pilots. The prototype first flew on 18 November 1959, and limited production started in 1960.
Variants
It was built in one variant, which could be used for passenger, transport, air ambulance or flying crane duties. The crane version, sometimes called SM-2D, had a hydraulic winch.
Where you'll see it
Eighty-six were built in four series, plus three prototypes, almost all for Poland. Five were exported, one to Czechoslovakia and four to Romania, and the last military example was withdrawn in 1981.
Related aircraft
AircraftIQ — the aircraft field guide: 5,226 recognition guides, live overhead identification, works offline.