Chinese Mi-171E helicopter pilots are receiving training at Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant (UUAP) in Russia.

The training programme will include theoretical and practical courses in the UUAP aviation training centre and flight simulator training at Omsk Flight Technical College of Civil Aviation.

Chinese pilots will receive the certificates and licences permitting operation and maintenance of Mi-171E helicopters upon completion of the training.

In December 2009, UUAP signed a contract with China to deliver Mi-171E civil helicopters in transport configuration.

The Mi-171E helicopter, which will be used for transportation including missions in highland areas, will be delivered in October 2010.