A medium-haul aircraft prototype, the MC-21, has successfully completed its maiden flight from the Irkutsk Aviation Plant airfield. The aircraft is now equipped with a comprehensive array of new Russian systems and components. In the context of international sanctions and the broader import substitution program, this event represents a significant milestone in Russia’s ongoing attempt to achieve technological independence in civil aviation, with the objective of reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
The MC-21 prototype demonstrated a wide range of domestically developed systems during this critical test flight. Russian-manufactured avionics, such as computers, switches, navigation, and radio communication equipment, are currently installed on the aircraft. The cockpit is equipped with Russian control panels for aircraft systems and domestically produced lighting equipment, which includes a wide range of items, including general cabin lighting and signaling boards. Furthermore, the aircraft is outfitted with domestically manufactured air conditioning and pressure regulation systems, as well as a Russian auxiliary power unit. The aircraft’s dependence on imported parts has been further reduced by the integration of Russian components into the power supply system, hydraulics, and landing gear.
The aircraft attained an altitude of 3,000 meters and a speed of 580 km/h during the 1 hour and 15 minute test flight. A highly experienced crew, consisting of chief flight test engineers Alexander Popov and Alexander Solovyov, as well as test pilots Alexander Guskov and Hero of Russia Roman Taskayev, performed the flight. This flight signifies the commencement of factory fine-tuning trials, which serve as a precursor to the more extensive certification program for the import-substituted MC-21. The prototype is anticipated to begin formal certification trials under the import substitution program by the end of 2024, following a succession of plant development tests.
“The MC-21 is intended to replace Boeings and Airbuses in the skies over Russia. It is an advanced aircraft in terms of its characteristics — very modern and comfortable, with outstanding aerodynamics and next-generation onboard systems,” said Rostec Executive Director Oleg Yevtushenko.
“Today’s flight brings us one step closer to the certification and market launch of the import-substituted MC-21,” Yevtushenko added.
The MC-21’s development is significantly influenced by the transition from foreign to domestic components. Two modified MC-21 prototypes, which have previously been used for certification tests with foreign systems, are now being used in the flight testing program for import substitution. The first of these was flown during this milestone event, replacing many foreign systems with Russian ones. This change was compelled by Western sanctions, particularly those implemented in 2022, which expedited Russia’s pursuit of technological self-reliance in the aviation sector.
The MC-21 is a medium-haul passenger aircraft of the latest iteration, specifically designed to compete with the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo. It is equipped with advanced aerodynamics, such as a high-aspect-ratio composite wing, which enhances passenger comfort and efficiency, and has a capacity that ranges from 163 to 211 passengers. The MC-21-310 variant, in particular, is equipped with Aviadvigatel PD-14 engines manufactured in Russia, which have replaced the Pratt & Whitney engines that were in use in previous prototypes. Recent test flights have concentrated on the evaluation of Russian fuel filters and the integrated backup device system (ISRP-21), which provides critical flight and navigation data using domestic technology, in addition to the new avionics and environmental systems.
The successful flight of the MC-21 prototype with Russian systems is a critical stage in Russia’s strategy to protect its civil aviation sector from external pressures and to promote technological self-reliance. The MC-21 is not only positioned as a flagship of Russian aerospace innovation for both domestic and potential export markets, but it also addresses immediate supply chain challenges through the integration and testing of domestic avionics, environmental systems, and power components. The MC-21 is poised to become the first domestic aircraft to feature a completely integrated suite of Russian-developed onboard systems, a milestone that will usher in a new era for the country’s aviation industry. This achievement demonstrates tangible progress in Russia’s import substitution drive.
The main modifications to the aircraft’s standard design, which included the installation of PD-14 engines and the use of wings made of domestically produced composite material, were authorized by the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) at the end of 2022. The beginning of serial production of the import-substituted MC-21 is scheduled for 2026, according to the most recent official information.
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