NPO Polyet claims 19 An-3 orders

Published: 6/6/2000

It seems that the optimism for orders for the upgrade of the An-2, the TVD-20 turboprop powered An-3, expressed by Omsk-based NPO Polyot in March, has been vindicated with a claim of 19 firm orders for refurbishing the piston biplanes into An-3 turboprops. The first 'commercial' An-3 was recently on display at the Siberian Air Show in Novosibirsk, bearing Evenkia markings. According to NPO Polyot spokesman, the aircraft had acquired a temporary MAK certification in May, which means the plane can be commercially operated. He added that 19 orders will keep the An-3 line at capacity for the rest of 2000. There are five orders from Evenkia and five more from Norilsk-based air detachment. NPO Polyet claims it has 50 requests for An-2 refurbishment from other operators. Apart from the TVD-20 engine driving a Stupino AV-17 three-blade propeller, the An-3 has an improved cockpit, improved systems for cabin heating and ventilation, electrical power and fire-fighting. The nose section has an insertion to offset the weight difference between the TVD-20 and the heavier Shvetsov Ash-62IR. NPO Polyet, NPO Baranov (TVD-20 manufacturer) and OMKB (TVD-20 developer) are all based in Omsk, where they are currently setting up a pilot conversion centre, with the first 20 crews from Evenkia and Norilsk having already qualified. Omsk regional administration is pictured as a strong supporter of the An-3 project which is given a 'regional status'.

Article ID: 1845