RuAviation

Russia’s first production-standard MC-21-310 airliner is expected to begin flight testing in late July, marking the start of factory trials for the fully Russian-configured version of the aircraft.

The aircraft, designated MC.0014 with registration 73362, has completed final preparations at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant and is scheduled to make its first flight between 27 July and 2 August, according to plant management. It will become the first production aircraft fitted with domestically developed systems and components to enter the flight-test programme.

A second production MC-21-310, designated MC.0015, is also nearing completion and is expected to join the test campaign after entering final preparation activities in August. The aircraft is intended for delivery to Russian flag carrier Aeroflot.

The MC-21 programme is currently transitioning from development and certification activities towards series production. Irkutsk Aviation Plant reported that 18 aircraft are in different stages of assembly, including six airframes undergoing structural assembly and systems installation, six undergoing fuselage section assembly and joining, and two in final assembly.

The manufacturer is continuing work to establish a sustainable production rate for the aircraft. Plant management said additional financial support is required to maintain production continuity and supplier activity.

Russia’s state aviation authorities are expected to complete certification activities for the production-standard MC-21-310 in spring 2027. Following review of flight-test data and amendments to the type certificate, initial customer deliveries are expected to begin, with Aeroflot identified as the launch operator.

The aircraft represents the fully localised configuration of the MC-21 family, replacing imported systems used on earlier development aircraft. The baseline MC-21-310 is powered by two Aviadvigatel PD-14 turbofan engines and is designed for the 160–180 seat single-aisle market segment.

A shortened MC-21-210 variant is also under development. The aircraft is expected to accommodate approximately 140 passengers and retain the PD-14 powerplant, with a target range of at least 5,000 km. Russian officials said the development contract has been signed and project financing has been allocated.