Komsomolsk-On-Amur, Russia
The SSJ100's debut flight was captained by Alexander Yablontsev, Chief Pilot of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft, and a test pilot Leonid Chikunov. The crew spent 1 hour and 5 minutes in flight. In due accordance with the launch flight mission, the new Russian aircraft gained the height of 1,200 meters. During its premiere flight, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 successfully took off, flew over the takeoff runway the expected four times at different heights, completed a box pattern span and successfully landed. The pilot crew confirmed the high thrust-to-weight ratio and the sustainable operation of the aircraft engines and main systems.
"I am happy! At last, after so many years we are here. We did it. I am very delighted that we are the first who have taken the new Russian jet off. This aircraft is a real success, and I can surely state that it is as easy to pilot as Airbus or Boeing's planes I had previously captained," distinguished Alexander Yablontsev, SCAC's Chief Pilot.
"Today is the most important day for us - we have virtually beaten the air with our own wings. It has been a long way. The result we achieved - the first debut of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 in the sky - is really inspiring for aviators. Our team comprised of thousands of people from all over the world shares this big success. The Sukhoi Superjet 100 is a remarkable aircraft, which did complete its first flight. At the same time, there are a lot of things to do - certification tests are ahead. I am sure that we will win and the aircraft will be a success," said Mikhail Pogosyan, Director General of Sukhoi Holding.
"It is with great pride and satisfaction that we welcome the Sukhoi Superjet's maiden flight. Participating in the SSJ 100 program is a great opportunity for us to capitalise the technical and commercial know-how previously acquired by Alenia Aeronautica in the regional aircraft market sector. Alenia Aeronautica thinks that the strategic investment in SCAC and the partnership with Sukhoi in the new joint venture Superjet International for the sales and after sales of the new aircraft, will bring long term success in a high competitive market," declared Giovanni Bertolone, Chief Executive Officer of Alenia Aeronautica.
"The first flight is the highlight of the aviation industry and the most important event for people involved in the Project. It is very emotional. The first flight is a challenging task, as the Sukhoi Superjet 100 is a new SUPER product with excellent technical and flight characteristics. This aircraft is unique for Russia. Every minute of the first flight was both an exciting expectation and an impressive experience," said Victor Subbotin, President of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft.
Source: Business Wire (Business Wire India)