Russia’s United Aircraft member Irkut has completed the maiden journey of its new MC-21-300 commercial aircraft in a test flight that commenced from the Irkutsk Aviation Plant.
During the 30min flight, the aircraft reached an altitude of 1,000m at speeds of 300km/h.
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Several capabilities, including checking of in-flight stability and controllability, as well as the controllability of the power plant of the MC-21-300, were tested during the test.
A simulated landing approach was also performed, followed by a flight over the runway.
Irkut president Oleg Demchenko said: “We put the most advanced technical solutions in our aircraft, to provide enhanced comfort for passengers and attractive economic characteristics for air carriers.
“I am happy to declare the maiden flight of the MC-21 aircraft has been successfully accomplished.”
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By GlobalDataThe MC-21-300 aircraft is designed to carry between 163 and 211 passengers, as well as features the largest fuselage diameter in the narrow-body aircraft category.
The aircraft has larger windows installed to provide better natural lighting, and is equipped with an innovative ergonomic pilot cabin.
In addition, the MC-21-300’s wings are made of polymer composite materials, which are used to improve the flight-technical characteristics and efficiency of the aircraft. The share of composites in the MC-21 is more than 30%.
Irkut has so far received 175 orders for the MC-21, and is offering two engine options, namely Pratt & Whitney’s PW1400G engine or United Engine’s PD-14.
Other members of United Aircraft, including Aerocomposite company, Ulyanovsk and Voronezh aircraft plants, as well as the UAC Integration Centre are also involved in the development of the aircraft.
Image: Maiden flight of Irkut’s new MC-21-300 aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Irkut Corporation.
