Russian state-owned United Aircraft Corporation has rolled out its forthcoming MC-21 passenger aircraft for the first time.
The aircraft was unveiled at an official ceremony at Irkutsk Aviation Plant, attended by Russian prime minister Dmitry Medvedev.
The MC-21-300 aircraft will be used for flight tests, and is designed to accommodate up to 211 passengers, competing with the Airbus A320neo, and Boeing’s B737 MAX aircraft.
Two other versions of the MC-21 are also planned – the MC-21-200 carrying up to 176 passengers, and the longer MC-21-400 carrying up to 230 passengers. First delivery is currently slated for 2017.
Unveiling the test aircraft Medvedev said:
““The creation of MC-21 aircraft is the tremendous victory of aviation industry, the victory of Irkut Corporation, our scientists, designers, our engineers, and workers.
“You’ve done the great job for our country, I would better say – just outstanding job!”
UAC has 175 firm orders for the aircraft, including 50 from Russian flag carrier Aeroflot.
Mark Caswell
