MC-21-300 aircraft engine water protection tests have been started

Irkut Corporation started tests of MC-21-300 to confirm the possibility of operating the aircraft in the presence of water on runway.

To conduct tests at the airfield, Ulyanovsk-Vostochny, a "pool" was mounted more than 70 m long and more than 20 m wide. Parameters of the "pool" provide a normalised water depth in accordance with Russian and international requirements, which are established for these types of tests.

Within a few days, MC-21-300 aircraft will run on water in a wide range of speeds and different modes of main engines, including the use of thrust reverser.

During the tests it is necessary to confirm that during aircraft movement the water does not disrupt the work of its main and auxiliary power units, and does not damage structure elements, systems and equipment of the aircraft.

The course of the tests is recorded by a complex of onboard measurement equipment, cameras of video surveillance system installed on the ground and on the plane, as well as by representatives of certification centers and specialists of Irkut Corporation.

The tests are conducted as part of the MC-21-300 aircraft certification program, in accordance with Russian and European airworthiness standards.