The modern fuselage of the first fully imported aircraft SSJ New stands ready, signaling a milestone in the ongoing program to integrate advanced Russian airframes into a broader production pipeline. The update comes from industry sources close to Rostec State Corporation, who confirm that the airframe has progressed through key preparatory stages and is now poised for the next series of tests and logistics steps. This development underscores the collaborative effort between design bureaus, manufacturing plants, and certification bodies to bring a next-generation regional jet closer to commercial operation.
According to these insiders, the plan is to deliver the fuselage to Zhukovsky airport within the week for a comprehensive set of strength and structural integrity tests. The period ahead will see teams from United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) arranging the final preparations for shipment, coordinating with suppliers, test facilities, and airfield assets to ensure that every measurement aligns with rigorous safety standards. The emphasis remains on validating structural robustness, material performance, and assembly precision before moving toward flight test campaigns and eventual certification milestones.
In parallel, industry communications around the same timeframe highlighted remarks from Russia’s Minister of Transport, Vitaly Savelyev, delivered during the forum Zone of Meanings. The statements indicated that the MS-21 family is being positioned to join Aeroflot’s fleet in the near term, reflecting strategic planning to expand the airline’s mid-range capabilities with a modern airframe. The minister noted that the newer design features broader cabin windows and an expansive cabin area, enhancements aimed at improving passenger comfort, interior ambience, and operational efficiency on medium-haul routes.
Within the ministry’s governance framework, Aeroflot reiterated its current fleet assessment, signaling that the Tu-214 remains a core aircraft in its long-term planning. The carrier signaled a phased transition strategy, intending to gradually shift a portion of its operations toward this model as compatibility, maintenance ecosystems, and spare parts availability align with fleet modernization goals. This approach reflects a careful balancing of legacy capabilities with incremental upgrades, ensuring continuity of service while integrating newer, technology-forward aircraft into the network.