All-New Russian RJ Completed First Flight Monday

The struggling Russian aviation industry got a boost this week. The first flight of the Sukhoi SuperJet 100 took place Monday, as reported by Sukhoi representatives. The first flight of the airliner was expected in 2007, but construction delays hindered progress.

Under the control of Sukhoi Chief Pilot Alexander Yablontsev, the SuperJet 100 took off from its manufacturing facility in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a remote city nearly 5000 miles east of Moscow. The aircraft reached an altitude of nearly 4000 feet during the hour and five minute flight and flew several maneuvers over the airport before successfully landing. During the maiden flight the crew confirmed the high thrust-to-weight ratio and the sustained operation of the engines and systems.

"I am happy! After so many years we are here. We did it. I am very delighted that we are the first who have taken the new Russian jet off. This aircraft is a real success, and I can surely state that it is as easy to pilot as Airbus or Boeing's planes I had previously captained," said Captain Yablontsev.

"Our team comprised of thousands of people from all over the world shares in this success. At the same time, there are a lot of things to do - certification tests are ahead" said Mikhail Pogosyan, Director General of Sukhoi Holding.

The French aerospace company Snecma and Italy's Alenia are both involved with the SuperJet 100 program.

Currently holding 73 confirmed orders for the 100, Sukhoi is hoping to sell 800 models of the aircraft between now and 2024, including 300 for Russian and 500 for foreign airlines.

The 100-passenger regional aircraft is expected to sell for around $28 million and has been advertised to be less expensive than similar aircraft currently in the market.

FMI: www.sukhoi.superjet100.com