The long-term future of the Ilyushin Il-76 looks secure, thanks to an agreement by the Volga-Dnepr Group and Ilyushin Aviation Complex to update the late Soviet-era workhorse.
International cargo operations will be assured for a further 15 years through a modernisation programme, Volga-Dnepr president Alexey Isaykin said at Le Bourget.
The new generation Il-76-90VD is powered by PS-90A-76 engines which provide significant operational benefits including increased take-off thrust and a considerable reduction in fuel consumption. The aircraft is due to fly in 2005.
Source: Flight Daily News
