The Rolls-Royce RB.211-powered Tupolev Tu-204 airliner has become the first Russian/Western joint-venture jet-powered-aircraft programme to be certificated in the CIS.
The Tu-204-120, which is powered by the RB.211-535E4, was approved by the Aviation Register of the Interstate Aviation Committee on 16 July, clearing the way for deliveries to the launch customer, leasing company Sirocco Aerospace International.
Sirocco is responsible for the marketing of the Tu-204s ordered in August 1996 by Egypt's Kato Group. Kato has a contract for up to 200 R-R-powered Tu-204s, including 30 firm orders, for delivery through to 2001. Several deals have already been concluded by Sirocco. Further details of the operators and numbers are expected to be announced soon.
Testing for European Joint Aviation Authorities approval is about to commence: the prototype Tu-204-120 will be flown to Ireland this month for Category II tests.
Source: Flight International
