Sukhoi Superjet 100 gets certification, ready for first delivery

Russian aircraft certification authority approved type certification for the Sukhoi Superjet 100 clearing the way for first delivery of the long-delayed aircraft, which rolled out in September 2007 and made its first flight nearly three years ago. The program was formally launched by Sukhoi in 2004 as the RRJ (Russian Regional Jet).

Launch customer Aeroflot holds firm orders for 30 Superjet aircraft plus 15 options while Armavia, which has two on firm order with two options, was expected to take first delivery.

The Sukhoi Superjet 100 is a modern, fly-by-wire regional jet in the 75- to 95-seat category. The Sukhoi Superjet 100 is designed to compete against the Embraer E-Jets and the Bombardier CRJ programs.

The SSJ aims for lower operating costs than its Embraer or Bombardier counterparts. According to Sukhoi, ongoing certification tests are confirming that the aircraft's direct operating costs are 6-8% lower than those of its key competitor, the Embraer 190/195.