In 1994 the Mi-172 helicopter performed its maiden flight. The –172 is intended for transportation missions, 26 passenger seats may be arranged inside the cabin. A large number of VIP helicopters were created on the basis of this version. At present the presidents and government executives of many countries are flying on Kazan VIP helicopters worldwide.

Early nineties the market felt the pressing necessity in certified helicopters. The weak point of Mi-8T was the lack of emergency floatation system. That's why the company set about designing of EFS and putting it in compliance with FAR 29. The Mi-8MTV-1 transport helicopter was the base for elaboration of Mi-172. It featured – rectangular windows, stairway door, rearward flapping doors with glass-integrated doorway. To lengthen the passenger compartment the insert was used from canted frame to plane of frame N16. The luggage space and some facilities are located in the short-cut rearward doors (the whole right side and partly left side). The helicopter didn't have the hatch of external store. As per FAR 29 in fire risk places duralumin skin plate was replaced by titanium (in the ceiling panel under the engines, on the board panels close to fuel tanks). Emergency escape system has been considerably changed. The Mi-172 was provided with four emergency exits with releasable covers: 2 exits on the starboard side, one on the portside and one in the upper cover of the entrance in the rear flapping doors. Besides the stairway door is jettisonable as well. The release system allows engaging it inside or outside the fuselage. The helicopter has the type certificates approved by Russian and Indian Aviation Registers.

The Mi-172 is equipped with emergency floatation system, which ensures buoyancy within 30 minutes, and with self-defense facilities. The installation of two external fuel tanks with volume 915 L increase flight range up to 1085 km.

The Mi-172 can be delivered with standard range of instruments or with western made configuration. The helicopter can be fitted out with heater or air-conditioner. In the rear section of passenger salon the luggage section, wardrobe, buffet and lavatory could be arranged. These versions can be furnished with highly comfortable and safe armchairs. Satellite communication facilities, audio and video equipment, various furnishing equipment can be offered to customer (to be continued).