Russian President Vladimir Putin made an unannounced visit to the Irkutsk Aviation Plant (a branch of Yakovlev PJSC under the United Aircraft Corporation and Rostec) on Friday, where he inspected the country’s flagship medium-haul passenger jet, the fully import-substituted MC-21-310.
Putin boarded one of the assembled aircraft, examined its cabin and systems, and reviewed the production lines. Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov informed the president that the first serial MC-21-310, built entirely with Russian components including PD-14 engines and domestic avionics, is nearing readiness for its maiden flight. Eighteen MC-21-310 aircraft are currently in various stages of assembly at the plant, all destined for Aeroflot under existing contracts. Work on parts for subsequent batches is also underway.
Plant director Andrei Soinov outlined plans to scale serial production, targeting an annual output of 36 aircraft. Serial deliveries to customers are expected to begin after the completion of certification testing, currently scheduled for 2027 and subject to approval by the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya).
The MC-21 program, launched in 2009, was originally designed with significant Western content. Following international sanctions, Russia accelerated full import substitution of critical systems. Earlier prototypes with Russian engines and systems conducted successful test flights in 2025. The fully domestic MC-21-310 is now positioned as a cornerstone of Russia’s push for technological sovereignty in civil aviation.
During the visit, Putin was accompanied by Chemezov, Irkutsk Region Governor Igor Kobzev, and plant leadership. He also viewed production of the upgraded Yak-130M combat trainer.
In remarks during the inspection, President Putin stated:
“What we see here is the result of persistent work by our engineers, designers, and workers. The MC-21 with fully Russian systems is not just a new aircraft — it is a demonstration of our ability to create modern, competitive aviation technology relying on our own resources. We will continue to support this program so that Russian airlines receive reliable domestic aircraft and our aviation industry strengthens its independence and technological potential.”
The visit underscores Moscow’s priority on expanding domestic aircraft production amid ongoing efforts to replace foreign fleets and reduce reliance on imported aviation equipment. Production ramp-up and certification remain key near-term milestones for the MC-21-310 program.
