When Russia said it was building a new aircraft that would rival western planes, we didn’t know what to expect.
Our minds couldn’t help but conjure up images of worn seats and a dated cockpit, similar to the aircraft utilised by of North Korea’s one-star airline, Air Kroyo.
Maybe Russia’s friendly history with North Korea tainted our perception of the European country’s abilities (and determination to beat the west).
Image: Irkut Corp.
Whatever, the reason for our low expectations in Russia, we certainly were surprised to find that not only has Russia built a pretty gorgeous-looking and eco-friendly aircraft, but it may even be nicer than some of the western planes.
*Shakes head in shame* sorry Boeing and Airbus, but look at it!
Image: Irkut Corp.
Dubbed as ‘superior’ to western aircraft, the new MC-21 airliner was built by Russia’s Irkut Corp. in a bid to revive the country’s aviation industry.
Around 175 versions of the plane are on order, including 50 for Russia’s flag carrier, Aeroflot, with first deliveries expected from 2018.
Image: Irkut Corp.
Twin-engine short and mid-range passenger jet models of the MC-21 are capable of carrying between 165 to 211 passengers.
That’s a fair few passengers less than the 242 to 335 passenger capacity of the Boeing 787 and the maximum 325 passenger capacity of the Airbus A350.
Image: Irkut Corp.
But where it lacks in capacity, it makes up for in efficiency. The aircraft is made of composite materials to reduce weight, which is expected to make it about 10 to 15 percent more efficient than Airbus and Boeing aircraft in the same class, save around 20 percent more in operating costs and use 15 percent less fuel than the Airbus A320.
Image: Irkut Corp.
Cabins are also said to be wider than its western counterpart planes by 12cm compared to the A320 and 28cm to the Boeing 737.
The extra space will apparently make it easier to walk down the aisles, with enough room to avoid passengers from blocking each other.
Image: Irkut Corp.
If that’s not enough, check out the fancy flight attendants working space and the spacious-looking lavatory.
Image: Irkut Corp.