Delays Hit Key Russian Civil Aircraft Projects

The timeline for serial deliveries of several pivotal Russian aircraft, including the Yakovlev MC-21, SJ-100, and Ilyushin Il-114-300, has been extended, as reported by various media outlets within the country. This postponement aligns with a broader narrative of challenges within Russia's civil aviation sector, as highlighted by President Vladimir Putin during a federal assembly address. Putin emphasized the necessity of modernizing the airline fleet with domestic aircraft that adhere to contemporary standards of quality, convenience, and safety—a goal complicated by past dependencies on foreign manufacturing.

Despite not specifying individual aircraft programs, reports suggest that deliveries for the MC-21, SJ-100, and Il-114, along with the Tupolev Tu-214 and UZGA LMS-901, are deferred to the 2025-26 timeframe. Notably, the domestically-equipped MC-21 has reportedly experienced an increase in weight, adversely impacting its range due to the substitution of international components with domestic alternatives.

Russian state technology conglomerate Rostec has indicated that the MC-21's specifications are expected to be finalized later this year. Meanwhile, United Engine has acknowledged the need for additional refinements to the Aviadvigatel PD-8 engine, designated for the SJ-100, following testing phases. Rostec's projection includes the delivery of 30 SJ-100 aircraft by 2026.

Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov, as reported by the government's Rossiskaya Gazeta and cited by TASS, projects that MC-21 deliveries might commence in 2025, with a potential delay to 2026. These developments underscore the hurdles facing Russia's endeavor to rejuvenate its air transport industry through domestic production, reflecting broader strategic and technical challenges within the nation's aviation sector.