Russian-equipped MS-21 aircraft completes maiden voyage.
The MC-21 Takes Off: Russia's Homegrown Rival to Boeing and Airbus
In a major leap for domestic aviation, the MC-21 - a Russian-made mid-range aircraft - recently completed its maiden voyage. This historical moment was reported by state corporation "Rostec". The flight commenced from the Irkutsk Aviation Plant, home to the "Yakovlev" company (part of UAC).
During the flight, the aircraft underwent a trial run featuring Russian avionics, power supply, and conditioning systems, among others. In a strategic move, approximately 80 foreign systems and components were replaced to reduce reliance on sanctions and reduce dependence on international suppliers. The flight lasted for 1 hour and 15 minutes, reaching a speed of 580 km/h and an altitude of 3000 m. According to "Rostec", all systems, including the new Russian components, operated flawlessly during the flight.
UAC CEO Vadim Babak expressed his excitement, stating, "This flight marks the commencement of factory acceptance tests for the MC-21 in its new, Russian configuration. Our plans for the coming months involve moving to Zhukovsky for tests in line with the certification program." He also mentioned that work is ongoing for a fully Russian MC-21, currently in the final assembly shop, with plans to join flights later.
Oleg Evtushenko, Rostec's executive director, added that the MC-21 has been designed to replace Boeing and Airbus planes in the Russian skies. Evtushenko described the aircraft as "an advanced plane with exceptional qualities, state-of-the-art and comfortable, boasting outstanding aerodynamics and new-generation systems on board. With the PD-14 engines, this ensures low operating costs and attractive economics for airlines."
Sergei Chemezov, Rostec CEO, previously announced that serial production of the MC-21 is scheduled to begin in 2026. The corporation anticipates that all certification flights for the aircraft will be completed this year.
The MC-21 represents a significant stride for Russian aviation, striving to achieve self-sufficiency by integrating domestic systems and preparing for large-scale production. First flown in May 2017, the MC-21 has undergone numerous modifications to replace foreign parts with domestically produced alternatives. The PD-14 engine, a critical component in the aircraft's powertrain, has shown promising results during testing, and improvements to the engine's design are slated for completion by December 2027.
Meanwhile, Aeroflot has been selected as the first customer for the MC-21, with plans to receive an initial batch of aircraft once production commences. Although specific production timelines have yet to be finalized, ongoing efforts are evident in the pursuit of self-sufficiency and certification for the MC-21.
- The MC-21, designed to rival Boeing and Airbus, recently completed its maiden flight, replacing approximately 80 foreign systems and components to reduce reliance on sanctions.
- In the aerospace industry, Rostec's executive director, Oleg Evtushenko, noted that the MC-21 is an advanced plane with exceptional qualities, featuring state-of-the-art systems and new-generation technology.
- Aeroflot, a major player in the finance sector, has been selected as the first customer for the MC-21, with plans to receive an initial batch of aircraft once production commences.
- UAC CEO Vadim Babak highlighted the importance of the flight, stating it marks the beginning of factory acceptance tests for the MC-21 in its new, Russian configuration.
- Through integration of domestic systems, the MC-21 represents a significant goal for Russian aviation, striving for self-sufficiency and large-scale production in the aircraft's technology and development.
