Second MC-21 prototype with Russian-made systems performs maiden flight
MOSCOW. Oct 28 (Interfax) - The second prototype of the MC-21 medium-haul aircraft with Russian-made components and systems has performed its maiden flight, the Russian Industry and Trade Ministry said on Telegram.
The ministry released "the first video of a takeoff of the Russian MC-21 medium-haul aircraft from the airfield of the Irkutsk Aviation Plant of Yakovlev, part of Rostec."
"It tested operation of new domestic systems and PD-14 engines," the ministry said.
The flight continued for 50 minutes on a top altitude of 3,500 meters. Captain Andrei Voropayev said the flight plan was fully accomplished, and all Russian-made systems operated normally, the ministry said.
The first flight of an MC-21 aircraft with fully substituted imported parts was expected first in August and then in October. It was announced by Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov and Rostec General Director Sergei Chemezov, among others. The ministry said that the second prototype had most imported systems and components replaced with Russian products.
"Specialists of the test flight division of the Irkutsk Aviation Plant checked the fuel system, the start and operation of the auxiliary power unit and cruise engines, and the operation of aircraft systems and equipment with engines running," the ministry said.
An MC-21 prototype with both Russian and foreign systems and components performed the inaugural flight in April this year. That plane had Russian-made avionics, auxiliary power unit, air conditioning and pressure control systems, lighting equipment, aircraft system consoles, Rostec said.
According to the Yakovlev website, MC-21 can transport up to 211 passengers. The range is 3,830 kilometers in a two-class configuration for 175 passengers. The first two serial aircraft are expected to be certified and delivered at the end of 2026, Chemezov said. Production is due to be ramped up to 36 aircraft per year by 2030. The MC-21 program timeframe has been repeatedly adjusted. The project started as international but foreign partners quit after the imposition of anti-Russian sanctions and the need for rapid substitution of imported systems and components occurred.
