With the successful maiden flight of the 98-ft long Sukhoi Superjet 100 on May 19, the aircraft is on course to enter service by end-2008 or early-2009.

Russia’s largest warplane maker is poised to launch the country’s regional passenger jet production targeted at the markets in the West. Barely a few days after successful taxiing and run tests, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) accomplished its first test flight at its manufacturing base at Komsomolsk-on-Amur, setting the stage for the 78 to 98 passenger mid-liner to create a big bang in the regional jet market.

To witness the Sukhoi Superjet 100 take to the air for the first time makes it the most important day for all of us. It has been a long way but the result we achieved is truly inspiring for our team of thousands of people from all over the world who share in this great success, said Mikhail Pogosyan, Director General of Sukhoi Holding.

Commenting on the smooth accomplishment of the first flight test of SSJ100, Victor Subbotin, President of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft said, In the aviation industry first flights are always milestones and the most important event for people involved in a new aircraft project. A first flight is a challenge, but the excellent technical and flight characteristics make the Sukhoi Superjet 100 a super new product and a unique project for the Russian industry. Every minute of the first flight was both an exciting expectation and an impressive experience, making this an incredibly emotional moment for us.

If the programme adheres to schedule, Sukhoi’s Superjet is expected to enter service by end-2008 or early-2009. While much remains to be completed on the way to certification, I am certain that we are well prepared for them and that the aircraft will enjoy the success it deserves, said a euphoric Pogosyan. Completion of the first flight test of the SSJ100 propels the Sukhoi Superjet project nearer to the delivery date. Russia not only hopes to secure at least 10 per cent of the world airliner market but also to take third place among aircraft-producing countries by 2015-2018. Sukhoi aims to produce five to six SSJ100s a month by 2010.