The long-haul Il-96-300 aircraft of the Special Flight Detachment "Russia" made an unusual flight in US airspace on July 7. The airliner flew from New York to Washington.

This flight lasted only 53 minutes. The affiliation of the Il-96 to a specific operator may indicate the transportation of heads of state, diplomats, and official delegations.

No information was reported about the visit of officials to the American capital. The Russian Embassy is located in Washington.

Il-96 Characteristics:

• Maximum speed — 900 km/h
• Cruising speed — 850–870 km/h
• Service ceiling — 13,100 m
• Flight range — up to 9000 km (with maximum payload)

The Il-96 is a Soviet wide-body aircraft. Also, "Perviy Tekhnicheskiy" explained why the Il-96 is not used in civil aviation, but is "tailored" specifically for transporting VIPs.