MC-21 began to be tested under system failures and maximum load with shimmy

In May 2026, three prototype MC-21-310 aircraft continued the factory and certification testing program. Over the month, the aircraft performed 16 flights with a total duration of 64 hours.

The main task of the tests was to check the operation of onboard systems, confirm flight characteristics, and test the aircraft in complex modes.

Aircraft No. 73055 underwent tests of the navigation complex and the flight control system. Flights were performed not only on regular routes but also in the Arctic regions. Engineers checked the avionics operation and navigation stability at high latitudes.

Aircraft No. 73057 underwent tests at extreme modes. It performed extended takeoffs with engine failure (including critical) and maximum takeoff weight. A series of rejected takeoffs with simulated hydraulic system failure were also conducted. In Ulyanovsk, the stability of the landing gear to shimmy – dangerous high-frequency oscillations of the struts during movement on the runway – was checked.

Separately, aircraft No. 73051 participated in the program to confirm the aerodynamic characteristics of the aircraft.

The head of Rosaviatsiya, Dmitry Yadrov, stated that the MC-21 has completed about 30% of the flight test program. When they will end is unknown, but serial production is planned to begin in 2027.