The Mil Mi-8 (NATO reporting name: Hip) is a medium twin-turbine transport helicopter that can also act as a gunship. The Mi-8 is the world's most-produced helicopter, and is used by over 50 countries. The Mil Mi-17 export version is employed by around 20 countries; its equivalent in Russian service in the Mi-8M series. The only visible difference between the mi-8 and mi-17 is that the tail rotor is on the starboard side (right side) of the mi-8, whereas in mi-17 it is on the left side.Russia is the largest operator of the Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopter.
Intended primarily for Aeroflot, the Mi-8 carries a 2- or 3-man crew and has seating accommodation for up to 28 passengers in its standard airline form. Alternative internal arrangements include a de luxe saloon cabin for executive travel or a cargo layout for an internal payload of 4000kg. Emergency conversion of the cargo model to a passenger carrier can be carried out quickly by installing 24 tip-up seats along the cabin sides. Clamshell rear doors are provided for loading large items of cargo or, in the ambulance role, 12 stretchers which can be carried with an accompanying medical attendant.
So, this gold-painted Mi-8 now is standing in front of the Mil aircraft factory as a sign of worldwide recognition of this helicopter model. The sign near it says "Mi-8, The golden cut of helicopter industry". You can see the factory test airfield and plenty of aircraft from the footbridge near the railway station Panki (see additional points), the view is quite spectacular.
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