Ural Airlines is preparing to sign a new contract for the delivery of Russian-made MC-21 narrow-body passenger aircraft. However, when the aircraft will join the fleet remains uncertain. Company representative Marianna Galagura told EAN that, due to strong demand for domestically produced aircraft, they may have to wait for years for new deliveries.
900 Applications for the MC-21, Mass Production to Begin in 2026
Galagura stated that Russian carriers have shown great interest in the MC-21, with around 900 applications already submitted for this new generation of aircraft. However, mass production is not expected to start until 2026, with Aeroflot being given priority for the first deliveries.
“All airlines want to acquire Russian aircraft, but the industry simply isn’t ready yet. We can’t even begin to estimate when our turn might come,” said Galagura, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Ural Airlines’ fleet renewal plans.
From Pilot Training to Equipment: Major Investment Required
Galagura also addressed the challenges the company would face if MC-21s were to be added to the fleet, noting that substantial investments would be necessary for retraining pilots and technicians, and for acquiring compatible equipment and spare parts.
“Our current infrastructure may not be sufficient for these aircraft. It will require a serious investment of both funding and time,” she added.
SSJ 100 Falls Short, All Eyes Now on the MC-21
Ural Airlines does not consider the SSJ 100 adequate due to its range limitations. “The SSJ 100 can only fly for four hours. But we need at least a six-hour range. Airbus produces one aircraft a day, but our production capacity is still unclear,” said Galagura.
Alternative Options Possible if Sanctions are Lifted
The Ural Airlines representative also noted that, if sanctions are eased, deals with alternative aircraft suppliers could be considered. However, she added, “there are currently no signs of improvement in the aviation sector.”
It is worth recalling that Russia recently offered to purchase Boeing aircraft in exchange for frozen assets in the United States, but Washington requested that the proposal be postponed until the conflict in Ukraine is resolved.
