We operated an MI8AMT (new from Ulan Ude) in early 90's and I don't think another "western" equivalent class of helicopter could have been operated in the same though conditions. We dealt with highly professional crews and engineers as well as a very good service from the factory.
This helicopter was certified for " cargo and service passengers" only, and in my point of view, the weak point was the low life time of the components....certification norms were obviously far away from FAR/JAR.
I only hope that its successor (the Mi 38?) is certified according to the FAR/JAR standards for passenger transport, still keeping the MI8AMT/MTV roughness and level of performance, with of course, a better life time on components to make it commercially profitable.
Dreaming to fly one....again
