Russia Flies Second MC-21 Jet Fully With Domestic Components Amid Sanctions

Russia has successfully conducted the second test flight of the MC-21 medium-haul passenger aircraft, which is now fully equipped with Russian-made components, including onboard systems and PD-14 turbofan engines. Developed to replace Western aircraft like Airbus and Boeing models that Russian airlines struggle to maintain due to sanctions, the MC-21 has a seating capacity of around 175 passengers and represents a strategic effort towards aviation self-reliance amid geopolitical challenges. Despite progress, production has been slow, with only one of the planned 15 aircraft delivered by August 2025, and earlier versions of the MC-21 faced issues such as increased weight, limited range, and higher fuel consumption. The domestic component substitution includes cockpit controls, avionics, and other critical systems, marking a significant move to reduce dependence on foreign technology. Delivery of the MC-21 jets is now expected to begin by late 2026, with plans to scale production up to 36 aircraft annually by 2030. This development underscores Russia's determination to sustain its aviation industry despite sanctions and economic pressures.