MC-21 aircraft completes long-distance flight with domestic components

The first production MC-21-310 aircraft, designed to fully replace imported components, has completed a long-distance flight from Irkutsk to Zhukovsky. During the 5-hour and 50-minute flight, the aircraft reached an altitude of 12,100 meters and a top speed of 850 km/h. The flight crew reported that all systems operated normally during the mission.

Developed by Yakovlev under the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), a subsidiary of Rostec, the MC-21 is a medium-range narrow-body passenger jet with a capacity of 163 to 211 passengers. The development of this aircraft emphasizes technological autonomy, utilizing domestically produced engines, aerodynamic structures, hydraulic systems, landing gear, and avionics.

While the push for domestic manufacturing was part of a long-term strategy, international sanctions following the conflict in Ukraine have accelerated the replacement of foreign-sourced parts. Flight testing is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of next year, with certification expected by the end of that year.