Commenced mass production for MS-21 and SJ-100 aircraft, as announced by Sergey Chemezov
The Russian aviation industry is making significant strides towards self-sufficiency, with key aircraft programs nearing important milestones.
The partially import-substitute MC-21, equipped with the Russian PD-14 engine, has already commenced certification flights. The prototype, bearing the tail number 73057, has been modified with domestically produced components, including composite wings and various systems [2][3].
Russia's Minister of Industry and Trade, Anton Alikhanov, announced that a fully import-substitute MC-21 with Russian systems will take to the skies in August 2025 [1]. By the end of 2026, certification flights for the MC-21 are expected to be completed, and serial production will commence [5].
Meanwhile, certification flights for another fully import-substitute aircraft, the SJ-100, are currently underway. The exact timeline for the SJ-100's maiden flight is not yet disclosed, but it is anticipated to be completed by late summer 2026 [2][3][4]. Serial production of the SJ-100 and Il-114 aircraft will begin in 2026 [6].
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has emphasised the importance of safety as the top priority for Russians, awaiting domestic aircraft [7]. To ensure timely maintenance and supply of spare parts, there will be a total of 50 service points for the MC-21, in collaboration with airlines [8].
Rostec, under the leadership of Sergei Chemezov, has established eight service points for aircraft maintenance, with plans to increase this number to 15 by 2030 [9]. The Prime Minister has tasked the head of Rostec with preparing proposals for the financial model of aircraft and helicopter production, taking into account the macroeconomic situation [10]. The financial model preparation is being done carefully, with the Prime Minister stressing the importance of thorough preparation, including possible fuel subsidies.
As the Russian aviation industry continues to make progress, the anticipation for domestic aircraft grows. The MC-21 and SJ-100 are key components of this push for self-sufficiency, and their successful implementation will undoubtedly bolster Russia's aviation sector.
The Russian government's focus on self-sufficiency in the aviation industry extends beyond aircraft production, as the Minister of Industry and Trade plans to implement a financial model for aircraft and helicopter production, involving key figures in business and finance.
Technology plays a crucial role in this push for self-sufficiency, with the development and use of domestically produced components in aircraft programs like the MC-21 and SJ-100, demonstrating Russia's growing capability in the technology sector.
