“Welcome to Rio: The Arrival of Sikorsky’s Twin Turboprop Marvel, the PZL M28®!”
RIO DE JANEIRO, April 3, 2017 — Sikorsky, a company under Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), is set to showcase the exceptional short takeoff and landing capabilities of the M28 turboprop airplane. This demonstration is aimed at military, civil, and commercial operators during the LAAD Defence & Security trade show happening from April 4-7.
The aircraft arrived on April 3 at Jacarepaguá Airport in Rio de Janeiro after successfully showcasing its diverse mission capabilities to clients in Trinidad and Tobago, and to the Brazilian Army along with other transport operators in Manaus and Brasília. Notably, the M28 can take off with a cargo load of up to 2,300 kg (5,000 lbs.) in a mere 548 meters (1,800 ft.) of runway length. Additionally, the innovative cabin can be swiftly reconfigured from passenger to cargo setup, accommodating up to 13.73 m³ (485 cu ft.) of space.
Adam Schierholz, Sikorsky’s regional executive for Latin America, expressed, “We are thrilled by the robust interest from both commercial transport enterprises and military commands, as the M28 airplane boasts the largest payload capacity in its category. Operators are in search of a reliable, versatile, and low-maintenance aircraft designed for transporting cargo and passengers to unprepared landing sites, whether these are in mountainous regions, jungle clearings, or small island runways.”
Transport operators in Trinidad & Tobago highlighted the M28’s capability to carry 19 passengers or a blend of passengers and cargo during the same flight. The loading and unloading process is streamlined through rear clamshell doors in the spacious cabin, and the optional air conditioning system was particularly appealing.
The Brazilian Army observed the aircraft’s dual-pilot setup, which can be equipped with mission-specific gear or carry up to 17 armed troops. It can also perform medical evacuations and accurately drop paratroopers and cargo from the rear. A manually operated cargo hoist with a capacity of 700 kg (1,540 lbs.) allows the flight crew to handle cargo flexibly, even in remote locations.
The M28 is powered by two PT6A-65B engines, delivering a total output of 2,200 horsepower, ensuring excellent flight performance in both tropic and cold climates while carrying maximum payloads.
To view the M28 aircraft at the LAAD event, express your interest at the Lockheed Martin booth F20, or learn more about the aircraft features at www.m28aircraft.com.
