The second Russian MC-21-310 jet equipped exclusively with domestic systems and engines has taken off in Irkutsk.
The UAC (United Aircraft Corporation) announced that the second example of the Russian medium-range MC-21-310 aircraft, featuring fully localized components, successfully completed its first flight from the Irkutsk Aviation Plant airfield, part of the Yakovlev company.
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During the flight, the new domestic systems and PD-14 engines developed by ODK, part of Rostec, were tested. The aircraft will now join the certification testing program alongside the experimental MC-21 prototype, which conducted its first flight in the new configuration on April 29, 2025.
Crew and Flight Performance
The flight was conducted by test pilots Andrey Voropaev and Oleg Mutovin, accompanied by flight engineers Anton Kuznetsov and Grigory Kudryashov. The aircraft remained airborne for about one hour, reaching a maximum speed of 500 km/h and an altitude of 3,500 meters.
According to Commander Voropaev, the mission was fully accomplished and all domestic systems operated within expected parameters.
Progress in Import Substitution
The MC-21 project is one of the key symbols of Russia’s import substitution strategy in the aerospace sector. According to UAC, the new aircraft now feature locally produced replacements in nearly all critical systems, including cockpit controls, control system actuators, air conditioning and fuel systems, wing mechanisms, brakes, power units, wheels, tires, and onboard electronic equipment.
Specialists at the Irkutsk plant also conducted detailed tests of the fuel and engine start systems prior to the maiden flight.
Production and Deliveries
UAC General Director Vadim Badeha emphasized that the successful second flight marks a major technical milestone: “This flight is the result of enormous work by the engineers, designers, and testers of companies within the Rostec State Corporation. Alongside certification, serial production of the aircraft is already underway. Deliveries to airlines are expected to begin following final approval by Rosaviatsiya,” Badeha said.
With production advancing and testing continuing, the MC-21-310 is nearing operational entry, solidifying itself as Russia’s main contender in the single-aisle aircraft segment.
Source and images: UAC | Telegram: @uac_ru. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
