Antonov’s AN-132D will take centre stage at next week’s Paris Air Show, making its first international appearance after building up initial flight time equipped with Dowty Propellers’ R408 propeller system.

This twin-engine transport demonstrator will be displayed at Le Bourget Airport during the biennial aerospace gathering, and is to take part in the air show’s flight presentation on Monday, June 19 and Wednesday, June 21.

The AN-132D is equipped with Dowty Propellers’ R408 propeller system, incorporating six all-composite blades with advanced swept design that provide excellent climb and cruise performance while generating low noise levels.

Supporting Antonov’s AN-132D

In support of the AN-132D programme, Dowty Propellers assisted in the R408 propeller system’s integration and commissioning, while also providing training for project personnel. A total of three propeller systems were delivered and commissioned by the company, to be followed by the supply of strain gauge test equipment for the ongoing flight tests.

Dowty Propellers has been providing technical support during the current test phase, to be maintained during the multi-purpose aircraft’s demonstration flights later in the year.  The AN-132D’s maiden flight was performed from Antonov’s Kiev, Ukraine facility on March 31.

The AN-132D is being developed in a collaboration of the Antonov Company and partners from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – including the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Taqnia Aeronautics Company.

Dowty Propellers’ R408 propeller system and the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150A turboprop engines that power the AN-132D have logged millions of flight hours in service on Bombardier Q400 Dash 8 regional airliners.