PZL-Swidnik SW-4
PZL-Swidnik · Poland · first flew 1996 · helicopter
The SW-4 is a light single-turboshaft helicopter designed for training, liaison and utility work, serving as a modern skid-equipped complement to the larger Sokol.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 10.55 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Light single-turbine training and utility helicopter
- Three-blade main rotor over a compact cabin
- Skid landing gear and slender tailboom
Identify it by a compact three-seat-plus cabin, a three-blade main rotor and simple skid undercarriage. The slim tailboom and small, rounded fuselage distinguish it from the heavier twin-engined Sokol.
Specifications
- The PZL-Swidnik SW-4 has a length of 10.55 m (35 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 9 m (30 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 260 km/h (162 mph).
- Typical crew: 1-2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
PZL-Swidnik developed the SW-4 through the 1990s, flying it in 1996 as an affordable light rotorcraft to broaden the company's range. It later gained prominence when the firm joined the AgustaWestland/Leonardo group.
Variants
The type serves in civil utility form and as the militarised SW-4 Puszczyk trainer for the Polish Air Force, differing chiefly in equipment. It also underpinned unmanned rotorcraft demonstrators.
Where you'll see it
The SW-4 has no direct UK service, but its production by a Leonardo subsidiary links it to the wider group that supplies the UK's AW helicopters. It is best known as Poland's primary rotary-wing trainer.
Related aircraft
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