Armenian flag carrier Armavia has signed the first customer agreement covering support of the PowerJet SaM146 engine that powers the Superjet 100.
The deal came after Sukhoi's director general says the company is "keen on raising the quality" of its after-sales service. "We really need it," admits Sukhoi director general Mikhail Pogosyan, citing both the commercial and military segments.
Armavia is taking two examples of the aircraft later this year. At the signing of the customer support agreement PowerJet chief executive Jean-Paul Ebanga told Flight International that the manufacturer was in the process of deciding the make-up of its support team, and that it would make preparations during the next six months to ensure a smooth entry into service.
According to Ebanga, there will be at least five personnel on site to look after the engines as the jet starts services, although the precise number will be refined as the operational date draws closer.
"We are committed to ensuring 100% success of the entry into service of the aircraft and its engines," he says, adding that he wants "a smooth operation from day one".
Ebanga expects to seal a further customer support agreement shortly, possibly with Aeroflot, which is also in line to take some of the initial production Superjets.
Source: Flight International
