Russia’s second MC-21 aircraft, completely outfitted with domestically manufactured systems, has officially started its certification program for flight testing. The Yakovlev Design Bureau, part of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), built the aircraft, which flew from Zhukovsky to thoroughly test its new Russian-made flight-control motors, electronics, and systems.
During the first test flight, experts concentrated on evaluating the aircraft’s stability and maneuverability through the use of the newly integrated Russian control-system motors. These are essential components that govern the aircraft’s response to operator inputs, particularly under diverse aerodynamic forces and throughout various flight phases. Based on the assessment of the testing team, all installed components functioned as anticipated, exhibiting stable performance.
The addition of the second aircraft to the program considerably expedites the overall certification timeline. With two prototypes flying at the same time, engineers can test different parts together, gather more data each week, fix problems faster, and move closer to getting full type certification for the import-substituted MC-21.
The flight was conducted by a highly skilled team comprising Hero of Russia and test pilot Oleg Mutovin; flight-test engineers and onboard operators Oleg Berezin, Anton Kuznetsov, and Grigory Kudryashov; and distinguished first-class test pilot of the Russian Aviation Register, Nikolay Grigoryev.
The aircraft conducted a nonstop ferry flight from Irkutsk to the Moscow region, covering approximately 4,300 kilometers before arriving at Zhukovsky. On this airframe, all primary foreign components that were used in the MC-21 program have been substituted with Russian-made substitutes, which include control systems, wing mechanization, avionics, radio-electronic equipment, and the powerplant.
Crucially, the aircraft is equipped with PD-14 engines, which are developed and produced domestically. These engines are essential to the MC-21’s transition into a completely autonomous aircraft platform.
The Second Prototype
The second MC-21 prototype, tail number 73057 and sometimes called “aircraft 0013” in official documents, underwent a comprehensive modernization program in 2025 at the Yakovlev Design Bureau facility, a division of the United Aircraft Corporation. This airframe initially functioned as one of the early MC-21 test aircraft, assembled with a combination of Russian and imported systems. However, recent geopolitical and industrial developments have transformed it into a vital platform for verifying complete technological independence. Consequently, the aircraft was chosen for an extensive retrofit that would convert it into a near-serial variant of the domestically produced MC-21. The retrofit procedure was thorough and significantly more extensive than a mere modification. Throughout the year, engineers substituted the foreign-origin engines with the Russian PD-14 turbofans developed by United Engine Corporation. The PD-14 engines, which were tested on earlier models, are a key part of Russia’s new civil aviation engine program, designed to give the MC-21 a homegrown engine that is efficient and performs well. Following their installation, aircraft 73057 was entirely transitioned to the propulsion configuration intended for mass-produced aircraft.
Along with the engines, nearly every principal system aboard was substituted with components of Russian origin. The flight control system, including actuators responsible for the operation of main control surfaces, was upgraded with locally developed hardware. Wing mechanization components such as flaps, slats, and other high-lift devices were replaced with Russian counterparts, allowing the aircraft to evaluate the complete performance envelope independently of imported technology. Stabilizer control mechanisms, deceleration systems, and a redesigned fuel supply architecture were all incorporated to establish a completely domestically developed operational system, spanning from cockpit inputs to aerodynamic response.
Electrical systems also experienced a comprehensive overhaul. Wiring networks, power distribution units, and switching components were reconfigured and implemented to align with the domestic supply chain developed under the broader import substitution initiative. Landing gear assemblies, avionics suites, environmental control systems, onboard electronics, and the auxiliary power unit were similarly replaced, ensuring that all essential subsystems—whether mechanical, hydraulic, or digital—could be certified in accordance with Russian standards independently of external suppliers.
One of the most notable milestones accomplished during the retrofit pertains to the aircraft’s composite wing. Although the MC-21 program has long been acknowledged for its pioneering use of advanced composites in a narrow-body aircraft, sanctions initially disrupted access to foreign raw materials and pre-preg components.
Aircraft 73057 was the first aircraft platform to feature a wing built entirely from Russian composite materials on such a substantial scale. This achievement not only demonstrates the advancement of domestic composite manufacturing but also affirms the MC-21’s aerodynamic and structural benefits for sustained serial production. Upon finalizing the retrofit, the aircraft underwent an effective transformation.
Even though it was first designed and built as a “standard” MC-21 using parts from around the world, by 2025 it had changed into a completely local version built to match the final domestic production standard as closely as possible.</ It now functions as both a certification platform and a technological benchmark for future serial production, bridging the divide between initial prototypes and the aircraft that will eventually be deployed.
Officials have underscored that this degree of system-level localization constitutes an important step for the program. For the first time, an MC-21 demonstration aircraft has been outfitted solely with Russian-manufactured engines, avionics, mechanical systems, composites, and electronic components. This allows flight-test teams to evaluate how well each system works on its own and how they work together in a fully Russian-made setup, which is crucial before the aircraft can be fully certified.
The conversion of MC-21 tail number 73057 from its original mixed-supplier configuration to a modernized, completely Russian design highlights the swift progress of the program in response to substantial external influences. More importantly, it positions the aircraft as a key element in the ultimate certification process, enabling engineers to advance the platform through flight tests that simulate the conditions passengers will experience once production is underway. The retrofit represents a significant advancement in both technological independence and the operational viability of the MC-21 for commercial use, bringing the project closer than ever to widespread deployment.
Why the “Import-Substituted” MC-21 Matters
The importance of a fully Russian MC-21 transcends mere national pride.
First, it guarantees technological autonomy. After the dissolution of international collaboration in civil aviation, Russia needed an aircraft that it could design, manufacture, maintain, and support entirely within its borders. With the MC-21 now incorporating domestically manufactured systems—such as engines, avionics, wings, control mechanisms, and electrical systems—the aircraft no longer relies on foreign suppliers.
Second, it provides Russian airlines with access to a modern, fuel-efficient, medium-range aircraft during a period when the availability of Western airplanes has been substantially restricted. Numerous Russian carriers are confronted with geriatric fleets and escalating maintenance difficulties. An entirely domestically produced MC-21 provides a sustainable, long-term solution for the replacement of older aircraft.
Thirdly, the program contributes to the growth of the broader national industrial ecosystem. Tens of thousands of employees, numerous research institutes, composite manufacturing plants, engine production facilities, and avionics developers are incorporated into the MC-21 program. This promotes economic growth and fosters innovation throughout the aerospace industry.
Fourth, from a technical perspective, the MC-21 demonstrates the developments of Russia’s modern aerospace industry. The PD-14 engines constitute a new iteration of Russian aircraft propulsion systems, featuring enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and competitive performance. The composite wing—produced through a distinctive out-of-autoclave resin infusion technique—exemplifies the nation’s capacity to manufacture sophisticated lightweight structures that meet international standards.
Finally, the MC-21 offers passengers a more comfortable cabin experience. Its broader fuselage permits larger overhead compartments, wider aisles, and seating arrangements comparable to those of prominent Western airlines.
Certification: The Path Forward
Certification is a comprehensive and highly demanding procedure. All onboard systems must be validated under actual flight conditions. This encompasses the assessment of takeoff and landing performance, engine functionality, emergency protocols, system redundancy, stall characteristics, and numerous additional parameters.
The first MC-21 prototype equipped with Russian systems has already accrued extensive flight hours, conducting tests across a broad spectrum of scenarios. The addition of the second aircraft enhances momentum—tests can now be distributed between two airframes, allowing for quicker identification and resolution of potential issues.
Authorities expect to finalize the comprehensive certification of the fully Russian MC-21 variant by the end of 2026. Upon reaching this milestone, serial production and initial deliveries to Russian airlines may commence. Production is scheduled to expand to scores of aircraft annually, with the objective of establishing the MC-21 as a central component of Russia’s fleet modernization efforts.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Russian Civil Aviation
The effective flight of the second MC-21 equipped entirely with Russian systems signifies an important event. It demonstrates that Russia is capable of developing a competitive, contemporary, and fuel-efficient medium-range airliner utilizing exclusively its own technological resources.
If the certification process advances as scheduled and serial production proceeds without issue, the MC-21 has the potential to become the primary component of Russia’s commercial fleet in the next decade. Furthermore, it serves as an emblem of technological self-sufficiency and industrial resurgence.
The narrative of the MC-21—its initial aspirations, the obstacles encountered, the emphasis on import substitution, and its development into a completely domestically produced aircraft—reflects the wider evolution of Russian civil aviation. Today, with two aircraft actively engaged in certification trials, that transformation is more imminent than ever.