FPP-7M

FPP-7M in the aircraft external lighting system

The FPP-7M is a modernized aircraft landing and search light used in the external lighting system of helicopters and compatible aircraft. It is designed to illuminate a runway, landing zone, terrain or water surface during night operations and reduced visibility conditions. The unit combines landing and search lighting functions, so it can support takeoff, landing, taxiing, field operations and aerial search tasks. On Mi-8 / Mi-17 family helicopters, the FPP-7M is one of the main high-intensity external lights used when the crew needs controlled illumination outside the aircraft.

Landing and runway illumination by the FPP-7M

During approach, landing and takeoff, the FPP-7M provides a concentrated beam that helps the crew visually assess the runway, landing area or selected touchdown zone. This is important when operating from poorly lit airfields, temporary pads, field landing sites or remote areas without stable ground lighting. The light gives the pilots an onboard source of surface illumination and improves visual orientation during the final phase of landing and ground movement. It is also useful during taxiing, positioning and approach to parking or service zones.

Search function of the FPP-7M

The FPP-7M is also used as a search light. Its beam can illuminate terrain, water surface, rescue areas, landing sites, cargo zones, personnel, equipment and obstacles below or ahead of the aircraft. This makes the unit useful for rescue, evacuation, transport and site detection tasks. In helicopter operations, the ability to direct a strong light beam is especially important because the aircraft often works outside normal airport infrastructure. The FPP-7M supports the crew when they need to identify a surface, object or operating area before descending or landing.

Retractable electromechanical drive of the FPP-7M

The FPP-7M is equipped with a retractable electromechanical drive that allows controlled beam positioning. The light can change elevation from 0° to 120°, while beam rotation is not limited within the mechanical design limits. This gives the crew more flexibility than the earlier FPP-7 baseline model and allows the beam to be aimed according to the task: forward for landing, downward for surface search, or repositioned during field operations. The drive mechanism should be checked for smooth movement, correct end positions and reliable electrical control.

Electrical operation of the FPP-7M

The FPP-7M operates from the aircraft 27 V DC electrical system, with a permitted supply range of 23.7–29.4 V. Power consumption can reach up to 480 W, so the unit places a meaningful load on the aircraft lighting circuit. The motor drive current is up to 0.7 A. The light can be used in continuous and intermittent modes, including cyclic operation with short ON periods followed by cooling pauses. Because of the high light output and heat generation, correct operating mode, wiring condition, switches, connectors and power supply quality are important for reliable service.

FPP-7M installation on Mi-8 / Mi-17 helicopters

The FPP-7M is installed on helicopters of the Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-171, Mi-172, Mi-171E and Mi-26 families, depending on the aircraft configuration and external lighting layout. It may also be used on other aircraft with compatible mounting and electrical interfaces. Before replacement or installation, the exact aircraft modification, mounting position, wiring arrangement and approved lighting configuration should be checked against the aircraft documentation. External lights from the same family may look similar, but differences in drive, beam travel, wiring or mounting can affect interchangeability.

Materials and service checks for the FPP-7M

The FPP-7M contains aluminum and copper components, as well as a small quantity of silver in the electrical contacts and internal parts. During service, the housing, lens assembly, reflector, drive mechanism, wiring terminals, mounting points and identification label should be inspected. Since the unit works externally, it is exposed to vibration, airflow, temperature changes, moisture, dust and mechanical handling. Faults may appear as weak light output, incorrect beam movement, drive failure, unstable switching or visible damage to the lens and housing.

Supply and documentation for FPP-7M

For procurement, the full designation FPP-7M should be stated together with the aircraft type, required condition and documentation. The unit is typically supplied as an FPP-7M assembly with lens assembly, passport and identification label, depending on stock condition and batch. The passport 8UO2.242.004-01 PS is important for confirming the designation, acceptance status and product traceability. Before installation, the light should be checked for electrical serviceability, beam adjustment operation, mechanical condition and compatibility with the aircraft external lighting system.

Product Type: Retractable landing and search light
Designation: FPP-7M
Alternative Designation: ФПП-7М
Function: Runway illumination, landing support, surface search and lighting
Application / Where Used: Aircraft external lighting systems
System / Installation Area: External lighting system
Compatible Aircraft / Equipment: Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-171, Mi-172, Mi-171E, Mi-26 and aircraft with compatible mounting and electrical interfaces
Power Supply: 27 V DC
Permitted Voltage Range: 23.7–29.4 V DC
Power Consumption: Up to 480 W
Motor Current: Up to 0.7 A
Luminous Intensity: 300,000 cd
Beam Elevation Range: 0° to 120°
Beam Rotation Range: Unlimited within mechanical limits
Drive Type: Retractable electromechanical drive
Operating Mode: Continuous and intermittent
Intermittent Duty Cycle: 1–3 min ON / up to 5 min OFF
Dimensions: 297 × 172 × 130 mm
Weight: Not more than 3 kg
Material Content: Silver approx. 5.31 g; aluminum approx. 0.93 kg; copper approx. 0.07 kg
Scope of Supply: FPP-7M unit, lens assembly, passport, identification label
Technical Documentation: Passport 8UO2.242.004-01 PS

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For selected items, a RESTOCKING FEE of 10% may apply in case of return, order cancellation, or changes to the order specifications. This condition applies only to certain products and is confirmed at the order approval stage.

Warranty
All products are covered by a standard 6-month warranty.
Extended warranty is available upon request and is agreed individually; it may affect the final product price.