engineering triumph of Russian aircraft industry
Hello, friends!
Today we will talk about an aircraft that promises to become the pride of the Russian aviation industry and claims a serious place in the world market – MS-21. This airliner has already attracted the attention of not only experts, but also ordinary passengers, thanks to promises to radically improve comfort in flights. Let's consider what makes the MS-21 so outstanding from an engineering point of view.
Avionics, engines and systems
Let's start with the very basics. The developers of the MS-21 are fully focused on creating domestic systems. This concerns not only avionics, but also life support, including modern engines. PD-14.
The PD-14 engine was created by the Perm company Aviadvigatel and is the first fifth-generation turbofan engine developed entirely in Russia. This power unit with a takeoff thrust of 12.5 to 14 tons is designed for the MS-21 and SSJ family of aircraft.
One of the most important advantages of the PD-14, in my opinion, is its high efficiency — specific fuel consumption is 10–15% lower than that of similar products, which allows for a significant reduction in operating costs. Additionally, the engine is equipped with a noise suppression system that reduces the noise level by 15–20 dB below the requirements ICAO.
The PD-14 design combines the latest technologies: a fan with hollow blades, a low-emission combustion chamber and an innovative turbine with cooled blades. The SAU-14 engine management system provides full control over its operation, and the high level of localization (up to 95%) makes the PD-14 the main element of the import substitution program in the Russian aviation industry. The cost of one engine is about 1.8 billion rubles, which in my opinion indicates serious intentions.
New standard for passengers
If you've ever flown economy class, you know what it's like: narrow aisles, little legroom, and a constant engine noise that can drive you crazy within a few hours. The MC-21 is a bit of a game changer.
Passage width in 50.8 cm.
Imagine: enough space to calmly pass each other with a flatbed truck without touching each other. Let me remind you that a standard flatbed truck is usually about 30-32 cm wide.
As a result, boarding and disembarking times are reduced, which directly impacts the efficiency of flights.
Size of portholes increased by 30%, and it's not just for show. More light in the cabin reduces the feeling of confinement and creates a more pleasant atmosphere for passengers, which is a must-have on long-haul flights.
And now about luggage racks. Here, the MS-21 does not fail either. The shelves have become 19–25% more capacious than those of Airbus A320For passengers, this means more space for carry-on luggage, and for airlines, fewer delays at boarding when everyone is trying to squeeze in their bag.
Economy Class Seat Pitch is 81.3 cm, in the case of low-cost airlines the step can be reduced to 73.7 cm, which will increase the passenger capacity to 211 people without compromising comfort.
Climate control
If the cabin pressure in competitors' planes corresponds to an altitude of 2400 m above sea level, then in the MS-21 this figure is reduced to the equivalent of 1800 m. This is very important for passengers, because lowering the pressure level reduces the risk of headaches and ear congestion, especially on long flights.
In addition, there is a small system update ventilationwhich, according to engineers, ensures even distribution of air throughout the cabin.
Aerodynamics and design
The MS-21 fuselage design is developed taking into account the latest achievements in aerodynamics and composite materials. The fuselage width has been increased to 4.06 meters – this is not only convenient for passengers, but also an important aerodynamic indicator. Composite materials used in the wing and fuselage design allow not only to reduce the weight of the aircraft, but also to increase its strength and resistance to high loads.
The process of creating the salon also did not go without interesting engineering solutions. The so-called “snowmen” — models that took into account the anatomical zones at the level of the head, shoulders, pelvis and legs of passengers. This made it possible to optimize the space and create more comfortable conditions for each person on board, regardless of their height and build.
The effectiveness of the design was particularly evident during testing. During one of the tests, the MS-21 performed a maneuver that is usually used only by combat aircraft — ranversman.
The MS-21 handled this task without difficulty. Smooth climb and direction change without losing altitude were made possible by ideal aerodynamics and a precise control system.
Production plans and prospects
Of course, the project is not without its challenges. Supplies MS-21-310 have been postponed to 2025, but this time will allow for further improvement and optimization of the aircraft. By 2030, it is planned to produce 270 units of the MS-21. Airlines are already showing interest – more than 150 orders have already been confirmed, including large contracts with Aeroflot.
Aeroflot plans to focus on the operation of the MS-21, and the previously contracted SSJ-100 will be sub-leased to other air carriers.
Shortened version of MS-21-310
Recently there was news that the MC-21-310 may receive a version with a shortened fuselage. Such a modification will allow airlines to operate aircraft with more optimal weight characteristics, while maintaining the flight range when loaded with 140-150 passengers. This decision was made due to the fact that the basic version of the import-substituting MC-21 is 5.75 tons heavier due to the use of new domestic materials and systems.
What's the bottom line?
The MS-21 is not just an airplane, but a big step in Russian civil aircraft manufacturing. Of course, the project faced a number of difficulties and delays, but they do not seem critical against the background of the overall success.
The aircraft promises to be a real workhorse for domestic airlines, offering both cost-effectiveness for airlines and comfort for passengers.
Well, let's keep our fingers on the pulse and wait for the first mass flights of this liner!
