09/30/2010. First hovered on December 14, 1977, the Mi-26 made its first full transition on February 21, 1978. The type established several world records, flown by G. Alfierov, an Mi-26 lifted 55,116 lb (25,000 kg) to 13,451 ft (4,100 m) on February 3, 1982.

Reportedly over 540 examples have been produced, including the Mi-26T freighter (up to 44,092 lb, 20,000 kg, internal or slung, or 82 fully equipped troops); the Mi-26P transport (96 passengers); the Mi-26MS (60 stretchers and 3 attendants); the Mi-26 TZ tanker (3,709 gal, 14,040 l, for ground refueling through 10 hoses); and the Mi-26TM flying crane (with rearwards facing cabin behind the nose wheel).

The Mi-26M is one of the latest developments with upgrade engines and composite rotors, capable of lifting 48,502 lb (22,000 kg).

Rotor span: 104 ft 11.84 in (32.000 m)
Length (over fuselage): 110 ft 7.83 in (33.727 m)
Length (rotors turning): 131 ft 3.79 in (40.025 m)
Height (top of rotor head): 26 ft 8.67 in (8.145 m)
Rotor disk: 8,652.46 sq.ft (803.84 sq.m)
Weight empty: 62,170 lb (28,200 kg)
Loaded weight: 109,349 lb (49,600kg)
Max speed: 183 mph (295 kmh) at sea leavel
Cruise speed: 158 mph (255 kmh)
Service ceiling: 14,764 ft (4,500 m)
Range: 497 mls (800 km)