Development is based on extensive use of advanced technologies tested to ensure high performance and reduce operating costs. A full-scale mockup of the helicopter was first built to optimize the layout of technological, operational, and ergonomic features. A wind tunnel model TsAGI was created to test flight characteristics and improve aerodynamic airframe layout. Laboratories tested the air intakes' dust device to improve efficiency. A model of the Ka-115 was presented at the aerospace show MAKS-95 in Zhukovsky. Prototype's first flight was 1999 and the aircraft is in production.

The basic Ka-115 is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada/Klimov PW206K/2 engine that drives a coaxial rotor system, equipped with rotor de-icing. The Ka-115 features a large five-door cabin with large windows and a skid undercarriage. The cabin is fitted with vibration and noise suppression, heating and ventilation systems, and comfortable shock-absorbing crew and passenger seats.

General characteristics

• Crew: 1
• Capacity: 4 passengers or 900 kg (1,984 lb) maximum payload
• Length: 9.2 m (30 ft 2 in)
• Width: 2.0 m (6 ft 7 in)
• Height: 3.6 m (11 ft 10 in)
• Max takeoff weight: 1,850 kg (4,079 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney/Klimov PW 206K/2 turboshaft engine, 477 kW (640 hp)
• Main rotor diameter: 9.5 m (31 ft 2 in)
• Main rotor area: 70.88 m² (762.9 sq ft)

Performance

• Maximum speed: 250 km/h (160 mph, 130 kn)
• Cruise speed: 230 km/h (140 mph, 120 kn)
• Range: 780 km (480 mi, 420 nmi)
• Service ceiling: 5,200 m (17,100 ft)
• Rate of climb: 11.5 m/s (2,260 ft/min)

• www.airshow.ru
• EI Ruzhitsky "Helicopters", 1997

• www.aviation.ru
• www.fsdome.com
• www.skycar.co.za