Russia: Sukhoi Superjet-100 on show ahead of potential Iran consignment

The Sukhoi Superjet-100 passenger plane displayed its capabilities during the MAKS-2015 air show at the Zhukovski Airfield in the Moscow region, Friday, as Iran's Vice President Sorena Sattari said Iranian airlines are interested in acquiring dozens of the aircraft earlier this week. An intergovernmental commission might discuss the deal at the side-lines of a meeting scheduled for autumn 2015, according to a Russian Foreign Ministry official. On Thursday at MAKS, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Andrei Boginsky also confirmed that Iran had expressed an interest in purchasing a consignment of the aircraft. The Sukhoi Superjet-100 is a fly-by-wire (FBW), twin-engine jet designed for regional flights for eight to 108 passengers. The aircraft was designed by Sukhoi along with JSC United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and a number of foreign partners. At a purchase price of $35 million and low operating costs, the liner could beat out competitors such as Boeing and Airbus, which are as well seeking to return to the Iranian market as soon as possible, after international sanctions had been lifted. MAKS-2015 is one of the largest air shows in the world with over 400,000 people expected to attend the event. Organised by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia and Rostec, it showcases Russia's aircraft manufacturing capabilities. A number of foreign investors and companies are registered to attend MAKS-2015 including US-owned Boeing and the United Kingdom's Rolls-Royce. The event runs from August 25 until August 30.