Pzl-Świdnik Pzl Sw-4

Single Rotorcraft

The PZL-Świdnik SW-4 Puszczyk is a Polish light utility helicopter that entered service in the early 2000s, representing Poland's first indigenous helicopter design to achieve full certification and commercial production. Built by PZL-Świdnik (now part of Leonardo Helicopters), the SW-4 was developed to fill roles in emergency medical services, law enforcement, pilot training, and light transport across Europe and beyond. The type's name, Puszczyk, refers to the tawny owl native to Polish forests, reflecting its agility and versatility in confined operating environments. Powered by a single Rolls-Royce 250-C20R/2 turboshaft engine producing 420 shaft horsepower, the SW-4 can carry a pilot and up to four passengers, with a maximum takeoff weight of 3,417 pounds. Its never-exceed speed of 140 knots and service ceiling around 15,000 feet make it well-suited for mountain rescue and utility operations in challenging terrain. The helicopter features a hingeless main rotor system and composite airframe components, offering modern handling characteristics and reduced maintenance compared to earlier light helicopter designs. While not widely exported compared to Western competitors like the Airbus H125 or Bell 407, the SW-4 has found a niche with operators in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland where it serves with the Polish Air Force Academy, border guard units, and civilian air ambulance providers. SkyMeter has tracked 1 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with distinct routes observed.