Tupolev's new 100-seat Tu-334 has made its maiden flight. The Russian company says it is in talks with Iran for licensed production of the aircraft.
The flight, which took place on 8 February from Zhukovski, the research and experimental airport near Moscow, lasted 43min.
Igor Kalygin, the aircraft's chief designer, says production lines have been established for the 102- seat -100 in Aviant's factory in Kiev, and for the 126-seat -200 in Aviacor's Samara factory. A second -100 factory is also planned by Tavia at Taganrog.
Tupolev general director Vasili Alexanderov says that certification is targeted for 2001. While there have been no orders yet, letters of intent have been received for more than 100 aircraft.
Money shortages delayed the first flight by years. The prototype was competed in 1993, and rolled out in August 1995.
Kalygin says an initial test programme of four flights for the Progress/Motor Sich D-436T-powered aircraft has been funded.
Tupolev general director Vasiliy Alexandrov says negotiations with Iran on licence production are under way. Iran is preparing to launch licence production of the Antonov An-140 twin turboprop.
Source: Flight International