About Russian Helicopters & Fuel Consumption
Russian helicopters, such as the Mil and Kamov series, are widely used for military, transport, and civilian operations. The Mi-26 is one of the world’s largest heavy-lift helicopters, while the Ka-52 is a modern attack helicopter with coaxial rotors.
Factors Influencing Fuel Consumption:
- Model & Role: Heavy-lift helicopters like the Mi-26 consume significantly more fuel than light or attack helicopters like the Ka-52.
- Payload: Transporting troops, cargo, or external loads greatly impacts burn rate.
- Flight Profile: Hovering, vertical takeoff, and tactical maneuvers use more fuel than cruising.
- Environment: Cold weather, high altitude, and long-range operations affect efficiency.
- Fuel Type: Russian helicopters commonly use TS-1 aviation fuel, but Jet-A/Jet-A1 are also compatible.
Formulas Used:
- Fuel Used = Burn Rate (L/hr) × Flight Hours
- Total Cost = Fuel Used × Price per Liter
- CO₂ Emissions = Fuel Used × Emission Factor (kg CO₂/L)
Example:
A Mil Mi-17 flying for 2 hours on TS-1 fuel at ₹88/liter:
- Fuel Used = 950 × 2 = 1900 liters
- Total Cost = 1900 × 88 = ₹167,200
- CO₂ Emissions = 1900 × 2.55 = 4845 kg
Note: These figures are approximate. Actual fuel consumption depends on mission profile, weather, payload, and operating conditions.
