RuAviation

In Komsomolsk-on-Amur, the SJ-100 aircraft, registration number 97012, powered by PD-8 engines, has successfully completed its maiden flight. This marks the commencement of the manufacturer’s development and proving trials under the power unit import substitution programme for the aircraft.

The flight crew, consisting of test pilots Dmitry Demenev, Igor Grevtsev, and flight test engineer Maxim Gryukanov, spent approximately 40 minutes airborne. The aircraft reached a speed of 500 km/h and an altitude of 3,000 metres. Upon landing, the Captain confirmed that the flight test schedule had been completed in full and that the PD-8 engines had demonstrated stable performance.

To expedite certification trials, a third Superjet, fully incorporating import substitutions, is planned to be brought into the testing regime. This prototype aircraft is scheduled to join the flight test programme in April. Certification of the PD-8 engine is anticipated this autumn.

The Superjet’s import substitution programme involves replacing approximately 40 imported systems and units, including the engine, avionics, undercarriage, and other key components. The aircraft also features a new domestically-produced fuselage.

Two further prototype engines are scheduled for delivery before the end of March for flight testing. UEC (United Engine Corporation) General Director Alexander Grachev noted that the PD-8 engine had demonstrated excellent results and fully validated its technical specifications.