Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (OAK) is unhappy with poor sales of its Beriev Be-200 amphibian twinjet, with only six commercial deliveries following the type's maiden flight 10 years ago. OAK president Aleksei Fiodorov says there is "a certain element of dissatisfaction" over the Be-200 programme development. "We had hoped for an annual production of five to 10 airframes", he says.
So far, only five Be-200ChS customised search-and-rescue and firefighting aircraft were delivered to Russia's Ministry for Emergencies and one to Azerbaijan, the latter in April. Two more Be-200ChS are due for delivery to MChS this year, which will render the launch customer's order for seven aircraft complete. MChS is considering firming up the option for eight more Be-200s, with decision due this year.
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Fiodorov says a combination of factors contributed to Be-200 poor sales. "We put insufficient effort into the marketing of this aircraft for use on special operations, and as transport between islands. The aircraft is unique, but it is suffering from a lack of infrastructure and shortage of operational experience, as well as our poor marketing skills. We have been selling fighters quite successfully, but the Be-200 is quite another thing, it is a very specific and unique aircraft that requires special marketing skills." There is only one fully equipped hydro aviation base, in Gelenzhik, where all necessary infrastructure has been put in place. "In order to sell the Be-200, it is necessary to create infrastructure at customer bases," Fiodorov says.
He insists there is market interest in the Be-200 and similar aircraft. "Potential customers are primarily interested in the fire-fighting version, but the interest suddenly disappears when the fires have been put out. It's expensive to buy a number of such aircraft and then wait until the fire season, even for the Europeans."
The European Union and Russia have long been negotiating the foundation of a "Euro squadron" consisting of Be-200 and other types, for use in the interests of both parties. "This promises a higher effect. Fires are observed every year, but in different locations. For many countries it makes sense to hire aircraft rather than to buy them," Fiodorov says.
Greece, Italy and Portugal are said to have been considering buying six, four and two Be-200s respectively. Delayed European Aviation Safety Authority certification for the Be-200, planned for April this year and not yet achieved, is "a serious restricting factor", Fiodorov says. Azerbaijan India, Kazakhstan and Spain are also believed to be interested.
OAK plans to step up the Be-200 sales effort, emphasising the aircraft's multi-function characteristics. It can perform many roles, says Fiodorov, including cargo and passenger transportation. The Be-200 is also offered in customised versions for military applications.
Source: Flight International
