RuAviation

The Il-114-300 regional turboprop has entered the northern phase of its flight-test campaign in Yakutia, a key step in validating cold-weather and unpaved-runway performance. During the program, the aircraft landed on a snow-covered gravel runway at Magan Airport near Yakutsk.

According to regional authorities, the aircraft has operated in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) for two weeks. Test crews conducted flight sorties and ground evaluations to assess system performance in sub-zero ambient temperatures and to validate operations from snow-covered surfaces.

The ground test campaign included extended cold soaking at temperatures down to –49 °F (–45 °C). After prolonged outdoor exposure, engineers from Il PJSC verified the functionality of onboard systems, cabin equipment, and exterior lighting. Crews conducted engine starts of the TV7-117ST-01 turboprops, and evaluated landing gear operation, the ice protection system, environmental control system (ECS), passenger entry doors, and emergency exits.

In flight, the team assessed flight control performance, propeller operation and autofeather logic, as well as avionics, communications equipment, and the public address system following long-duration exposure to approximately –40 °F conditions, according to the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Russia’s state-owned aerospace holding company.

The activities form part of the aircraft’s supplemental development and certification flight-test program. Il CEO Daniil Brenerman stated that in 2026 the company plans to expand the type certificate data sheet envelope and remove certain operational limitations.

Following the current phase, the manufacturer reported that the aircraft met its projected operating parameters. The next test cycle will target an expanded temperature envelope down to –58 °F (–50 °C) to further substantiate performance in extreme Arctic conditions.

The northern campaign reflects the operational realities of remote Russian regions, where winter seasons are prolonged and ground logistics are limited. Yakutia relies heavily on gravel runways and long-distance air links between communities. In this context, the Il-114-300 is positioned as a replacement for aging Antonov An-24 and An-26 turboprops in regional passenger and cargo service.