Another Sukhoi Superjet, which was equipped with domestically developed PD-8 turbofan engines, successfully completed a long-haul flight from Komsomolsk-on-Amur to Zhukovsky, marking a new milestone in Russia’s aviation industry. This significant flight, which includes an intermediate stop at Novosibirsk and spans approximately 6,000 kilometers, represents a significant milestone in the ongoing certification and import substitution program for Russian civil aviation. Details of the Historical Flight The aircraft, which was registered as 97013 and had a factory number of 95157, departed Komsomolsk-on-Amur in the early morning, according to Russian aviation sources.
Following a scheduled stop in Novosibirsk for technical checks and refueling, the Superjet continued its voyage to Zhukovsky, which is located near Moscow. The cumulative duration of the flight exceeded eight hours. An experienced crew, which consisted of chief flight test engineer Alexander Krylov and test pilots Leonid Chikunov and Dmitry Savonin, conducted the flight. The crew conducted comprehensive tests of the cruise powerplant during the journey, with a particular emphasis on parameters such as fuel consumption, stability, and vibration levels. Implications for Russian Aviation This flight is a component of the Superjet New’s comprehensive certification testing program, which is currently propelled by PD-8 engines manufactured in Russia and developed by the United Engine Corporation (UEC).
The aircraft will collaborate with two other prototypes that are currently engaged in the trials, which are intended to evaluate engine performance in various scenarios, such as long-distance operations and high altitudes.
The aircraft was transferred to Yakovlev’s aviation technical compound upon its arrival at the M.M. Gromov Flight Research Institute airfield. It will be subjected to additional certification flights to evaluate the reliability and characteristics of the new cruise powerplant. Commemorating the Legacy of Russian Aviation
A new era for Russian civil aviation is represented by the prototype Superjet, which is named in honor of Viktor Subbotin, the first president of the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft company (now a branch of Yakovlev—Regional Aircraft).
The project is a component of the import substitution initiative of the State Corporation Rostec, which is headed by Yakovlev and involves a consortium of enterprises under the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).
The PD-8 engines, which were initially tested on this prototype in March 2025, are a testimony to the capabilities of Russian engineering and the nation’s dedication to reducing its dependence on foreign technology.
The First Flight
The first long-distance flight of a Superjet New equipped with PD-8 engines occurred on April 18, 2025. This significant event marked a new phase in the certification program for the domestically produced Russian engine. The aircraft involved in this milestone was a Sukhoi Superjet New bearing the registration number 97012.
The aircraft’s route began in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a crucial production site for Russian regional jets. From there, the Superjet flew to Novosibirsk, making a scheduled intermediate landing at Tolmachevo Airport. This stop allowed for refueling and technical checks, ensuring the safe continuation of the journey. After completing these procedures, the aircraft proceeded to its final destination in Zhukovsky, which serves as a major center for flight testing and certification in Russia.
The total distance covered during this ferry flight was approximately 6,000 kilometers. The entire journey took more than eight hours, factoring in the time spent on the ground in Novosibirsk for refueling and system inspections. This extended flight provided an important opportunity to assess the reliability and operational characteristics of the new PD-8 engines over a prolonged period and under real-world conditions.
The primary purpose of this mission was to serve as the inaugural long-range transfer for the Superjet New with PD-8 engines, demonstrating the engine’s capability to support extended operations. Engineers and certification authorities closely monitored the flight, gathering valuable data on fuel consumption, engine stability, vibration levels, and overall aircraft performance. This information is essential for the ongoing certification process and for confirming the readiness of the PD-8-powered Superjet for commercial service. The successful completion of this flight underscored the progress of Russia’s efforts to achieve greater technological independence in civil aviation and to advance its domestic aircraft industry.
Looking Ahead
The Superjet’s successful long-haul flight on Russian PD-8 engines is an optimistic indicator of the domestic aviation industry’s future as the certification program advances. It emphasizes Russia’s commitment to the development and implementation of domestic technologies, thereby guaranteeing the civil aircraft sector’s ongoing expansion and autonomy.
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