The Russian aircraft industry is at a crossroads. On one hand, the in-demand MC-21-310 medium-haul aircraft is being built; on the other hand, it's unclear when it will enter regular service.
Some time will still be needed to eliminate "teething problems", but flights are needed now. Against this backdrop, calls to return the Tu-214 to service are growing louder.
"Pervy Tekhnichesky" decided to compare the two aircraft and understand which one is better in terms of its flight parameters.
Fuel Efficiency
The MC-21 was designed from the outset to reduce fuel consumption. Thanks to its new wing, modern aerodynamics, and PD-14 engines, the aircraft shows fuel consumption of approximately 0.53–0.56 kg per seat-kilometer in a typical configuration.
The Tu-214 was created in the late 1980s with less efficient aerodynamics. Its PS-90A engines are reliable, but their specific fuel consumption is higher — around 0.59–0.62 kg per seat-kilometer. Therefore, we give the victory to the MC-21 here.
Capacity and Comfort
The MC-21 carries about 163–211 passengers. Its wider fuselage allowed for one of the most spacious cabins in its class.
The Tu-214 typically carries about 180–210 passengers, but its layout is denser. The aircraft itself belongs to the previous generation of civil aviation, so the MC-21 wins.
Flight Range
The Tu-214 has a range of about 6500–7000 km, which allows for longer routes without restrictions. The MC-21-310 has a range of approximately 3800 km — this is currently the liner's weakest point.
Right now, the old Tupolev school is making a comeback: the Tu-214 is better suited for long-haul routes. A point in its favor.
Technological Advancement
Digital avionics and a modern cockpit make the MC-21 the most technologically advanced Russian passenger airliner.
Much has been said about the Tu-214 cockpit with its three-person crew, but this is far from the main problem. How exactly the Tu-214 will be relaunched is still unknown. Currently, the MC-21 looks better.
Readiness for Operation
The Tu-214 has been in series production for a long time. Production at KAZ, though small, actually exists.
The MC-21 is only now entering the mass deployment phase. The aircraft is technologically more modern, but it is the Tu-214 that remains the more "proven" platform today.
From the perspective of practical operation and readiness to fly, the advantage currently remains with the Tu-214.
Final score — 3:2 in favor of MC-21.
The MC-21 proved stronger as a modern commercial airliner due to its technology, fuel efficiency, and comfort. This aircraft is the closest to the level of the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo.
The Tu-214 meets different requirements. Its advantages are its long range, proven design, and readiness for operation right now.