MC-21 Aircraft with Russian Components Set for August Debut

Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov revealed on Tuesday that the inaugural flight of the import-substituted MC-21 aircraft, now fully equipped with Russian-manufactured systems and components, is slated for August of this year. This milestone represents a significant step in the country's efforts to achieve technological self-sufficiency in the aviation sector.

The minister elaborated on the progress, confirming that the MC-21 is already undergoing flight operations. He, along with colleagues from the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), anticipates the aircraft's maiden flight with all domestically produced systems to occur in August. The aircraft is currently utilizing the PD-14 engine, a Russian-designed and manufactured powerplant, demonstrating a key element of the import substitution strategy.

Further details were provided by Rostec, a Russian state corporation, on June 26th. They announced that the MC-21 aircraft is currently in the final assembly shop, preparing to enter the crucial certification testing program. This program is essential for validating the aircraft's airworthiness and compliance with safety regulations. The testing phase has already commenced in Zhukovsky, a city located in the Moscow Region, known for its aviation research and development facilities. This early start to testing indicates a focused effort to bring the aircraft to market.