Sukhoi Superjet 100 SN 95003 successfully completed the high altitude flight test campaign in Armenia.

Sukhoi Superjet 100 SN 95003 successfully completed the high altitude flight test campaign in Armenia. On September 21, 2009, the aircraft SN 95003 landed at the flight-test center in Zhukovsky.

The international Shirak Airport at Gyumri is located at high altitudes (5000 ft/1524m). Built in 1961, it has been upgraded in 2007 to meet ICAO First Class Airport requirements. The airfield is clutched in the surrounding mountains and, hence, available for takeoff and landing only from the southern side. Its runway is 3220m long and 45m wide.

Certification program on SSJ100 SN 95003 was performed by the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft crew: SCAC senior test pilot Alexander Yablontsev, SCAC test pilot Vadim Shirokikh with participation of AR MAK test pilot Mikhail Torokhov.

The program of tests included continued take-off as well as OEI missed approach flights. The majority of the takeoffs were performed with one engine failure imitation at maximum take-off weight.

During the high altitude flight test program at the Shirak Airport (Gyumri), SSJ100 confirmed the design take-off and landing characteristics. The system performance proved the compliance with the certification requirements. The results of the test campaign ensure safe and reliable operation of aircraft from the mountain airfields with 3300m (10000ft) elevation.