Unlike most other ex-USSR states, Uzbekistan keeps its special-purpose aviation under government control. The dedicated operator, Special Aviation Services (SAS), was founded in 1997, initially as an arm of the national carrier Uzbekistan Airways aimed at optimizing the mother company’s structure. At present, SAS has its own air operator certificate and a document entitling it to provide MRO services, both issued by the Uzbek aviation authority.
In April 2015 the company increased its fleet with ninth Mi-8MTV-1 heavy transport helicopter that was delivered under a contract with Russian Helicopters. SAS helicopters are based at Sergeli airfield 7 km to the south of Tashkent. The company uses these rotorcraft in a variety of roles, including for snow patrol flights and for carrying tourists to skiing resorts. The helicopters are overhauled in Russia with MRO work performed by St. Petersburg-based provider Sparc.
The Mi-8 MTV-1 is a unique multi-purpose helicopter, based at the Mi-8T model. The helicopter as a cargo helicopter can transport up to 4,000 kg of various kinds of cargo either inside the cabin or on an external sling. Used as a passenger helicopter is can carry up to 26 passengers & crew and boasts low levels of noise and vibration, is fitted with cabin climate-control systems, and has emergency exits that meet the latest safety standards. Everything is designed to ensure passenger in-flight comfort and safety.Mi-8 helicopters are built at Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant and by Kazan Helicopters. More than 12,000 Mi-8 helicopters have been produced to date – a record for twin-engine helicopters anywhere in the world. They have been supplied to more than 100 countries worldwide and racked up total flying time of about 100 million hours.
Source: http://www.uzdaily.uz/
Also see Commercial Helicopters in Uzbekistan
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