Pzl-Świdnik (Mil) Mi-2

Twin Turboprop

The PZL-Świdnik Mi-2 is a Soviet-designed light utility helicopter that became one of the Cold War's most widely exported rotorcraft, with over 5,400 built between 1965 and 1999. Originally conceived by Mikhail Mil's design bureau as the successor to the piston-powered Mi-1, the Mi-2 was unique among Soviet helicopters in being manufactured exclusively outside the USSR, produced under license by Poland's PZL-Świdnik factory and exported globally to both Warsaw Pact nations and Western operators. Its twin Isotov GTD-350 turboshaft engines, each producing 400 horsepower, gave it hot-and-high performance superior to many Western light twins of its era, along with single-engine safety margins that made it popular for EMS, agricultural, and utility work. The type's tandem three-blade rotor system and boxy fuselage can carry up to eight passengers or 1,700 pounds of cargo, with large clamshell doors facilitating rapid loading. Maximum cruise speed reaches approximately 120 knots, with a service ceiling around 13,100 feet and endurance of roughly three hours. While the Mi-2 saw limited military service as a light transport and liaison helicopter in Eastern Bloc air forces, most examples today operate in civilian roles (aerial work, firefighting, pipeline patrol, and private transport), particularly in Europe and the former Soviet republics. Its rugged construction and straightforward systems have kept many airframes flying decades past their original design life, though Western operators remain relatively rare. SkyMeter has tracked 6 flights across 4 airframes and 3 operators, with CAPRA JOSEPH A the largest observed operator.