You have probably found your answer by now, but this info may be of use.<br>We have used ex-Russian helicopters for installing cableway components to difficult locations.<br>The MI-5 can lift a nominal 5 short tons and the MI-8 can lift a nominal 8 short tons.<br>The actual lifting capacity of a helicopter also depends on the conditions - if it hovers in one position for some time, a large downdraught (like a reversed tornado) is created and the available lift is much less. The reduction in lift is greater when it is at greater height above the ground.