Video images have emerged of the maiden flight of the Tupolev Tu-204SM, the modernised variant of the Russian-built twin-jet.
The aircraft was rolled out earlier this week and performed the flight on 29 December, lifting off at 13:25 Moscow time.
Russia's United Aircraft states that the aircraft will be able to achieve a range of about 4,000km (2,160nm), with 9h duration, in a two-class layout with 174 seats.
The aircraft took off from the Aviastar plant at Ulyanovsk and the initial flight lasted about 50min.
United Aircraft states: "The test programme established for the first flight was successful. The aircraft landed at precisely the appointed time."
Tupolev has designed the Tu-204SM with upgraded navigation and communications equipment which will allow operation by a two-person crew.
It is fitted with a newly-developed powerplant, the Aviadvigatel PS-90A2.
While the aircraft has entered its flight-test programme the prospects for the Tu-204SM are uncertain, as its manufacturer has struggled to secure a stable initial order backlog.
Source: Flight International
