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The Ilyushin IL-96-400, currently the largest airplane in Russia and primarily used for cargo, could soon enter the passenger travel sector. This long-range jet, a significant player in the Russian aviation industry, could soon offer a new experience for passenger travel.
In an interview with RIA Novosti, Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia and Head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, announced that a crucial decision will be made in March regarding the re-engining of the airplane. This decision will shape the future direction of the IL-96-400 project.
According to reports by our associated media Aeroin, Manturov highlighted, «Before that, we must find the optimal solution for engine power. Our engineers and engine manufacturers are currently focused on this. The final decision on the demonstrator in March will determine the direction we need to take. The engine must be suitable for both a 100-ton cargo aircraft and a long-range, wide-body passenger aircraft.»
IL-96-400M: The Modernized Version
Last November, the IL-96-400M, an extended and modernized version of the already in-service IL-96-300, completed its first flight. This event marked an important step in giving the IL-96 a «second life». With an expanded fuselage, modernized avionics, and additional components, including the extra-power PS-90 engine, the aircraft is currently focused on cargo transport, aligning with market demands.
Manturov also mentioned the possibility of a future, more efficient, and competitive version of the aircraft with two engines instead of the current four, in line with the current industry trend of phasing out four-engine jets in favor of heavy twin-engine models.
