The question of remotorizing Sukhoi Superjet SSJ-100 aircraft with Franco-Russian SaM146 engines to domestic PD-8 engines lies in the economic sphere; there is no point in it now. This point of view was expressed to "Perviy Technicheskiy" by Oleg Panteleev, Executive Director of the Aviaport agency and aviation expert.
He recalled that aircraft have an effective service life when they have a relatively high residual value and do not require large funds to maintain airworthiness.
In my opinion, SSJ-100s with foreign components, produced in the first half of the last decade, are machines that are no longer in a state where it is economically feasible to carry out their remotorization.
The aviation expert suggested that by the time the opportunity arises to remotorize existing SSJ-100s, a significant part of the fleet will be in a state where it no longer makes sense to invest in them on a large scale.
The engine is the most expensive element of the design, there is no doubt about that. But there are also other foreign-made systems. If the aircraft stops flying not due to engine failure, but due to failures of other, relatively cheap components that are no longer produced, it will not be easier for airlines. So, it is necessary either to master the repair of all systems, or to import-substitute everything to the technical appearance of the SJ-100.
Panteleev added that the question sometimes sounds like the remotorization of the SSJ-100 to the PD-8 may cost more than decommissioning the aircraft and writing off losses.
Aviation expert Roman Gusarov also explained to "Perviy Technicheskiy" that replacing the SaM-146 with the PD-8 will require a lot of funds, and sources of funding have not yet been identified. He expressed confidence that starting work for the sake of 150 aircraft now makes no sense.
