Debut - SSJ100: First Flight

Russia’s largest warplane maker is poised to launch the country’s regional passenger jet production targeted at the markets in the West. Barely a few days after successful taxiing and run tests, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) accomplished its first test flight at its manufacturing base at Komsomolsk-on-Amur, setting the stage for the 78 to 98 passenger mid-liner to create a big bang in the regional jet market. With a price tag of $28 million (Rs 118 crore), the Sukhoi Superjet is expected to breathe a fresh lease of life into the $8 billion (Rs 33,600 crore) per annum regional jet market.

The SSJ100’s competitive price and its other advantages could well give rivals Embraer and Bombardier cause to worry. Low cost, locally sourced materials ensure the Superjet is around 20 per cent cheaper to build than the competitors’ aircraft. The Russians also believe that new fuel-efficient engines will lead to operating costs that are 10 to 15 per cent lower than either Bombardier or Embraer models. The excellent technical and flight characteristics make the Sukhoi Superjet 100 a unique project for the Russian industry. Every minute of the first flight was both an exciting expectation and an impressive experience, asserted Victor Subbotin, President of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft.