The MC-21 prototype aircraft of the Irkut Corporation of the United Aircraft Corporation, previously painted in the livery of the Rossiya Airline (Aeroflot Group), has arrived at the flight testing and finishing complex of the Yakovlev Design Bureau, where it will be trained for joint pilot operation. Irkut Corporation and Rossiya Airlines, as part of the pilot joint operation of the MS-21 aircraft, plan to train command and instructor personnel and instructor pilots, gain experience in air transportation on standard airliner routes, and also work out operational procedures.
In total, three MC-21 experimental aircraft will take part in the program, which will be based at the Ramenskoye airfield, where the Flight Testing and Finishing Complex of the Yakovlev Design Bureau is located.
The pilot operation program is currently being approved by the relevant federal agencies. At the first stage, piloting will be carried out by test pilots of the Yakovlev Design Bureau.
The MS-21 is a medium–haul passenger aircraft of a new generation with a capacity from 163 to 211 passengers. The liner is focused on the most popular segment of the passenger transportation market. The aircraft is being created on the basis of the latest developments in the field of aircraft construction. Advanced aerodynamics, engines and systems of the latest generation provide high flight performance and reduced operating costs compared to analogues. The aerodynamic perfection of the aircraft is provided by a wing of greater elongation made of composite materials. The largest fuselage width in its class provides an expansion of passengers' personal space.
