MOSCOW, September 18. /TASS/. The signing of the contract on supply of MC-21-310 aircraft to Aeroflot marks an important step in the development of Russia’s aviation industry, President Vladimir Putin said.
Airport infrastructure in the country is being systemically upgraded, with 20 runways and 26 airport terminals put into service since 2021, he said during a video-linked presentation of new civil aviation facilities.
TASS has collected the key statements by the head of state.
Modernization of airports
At least 75 Russian airports should be modernized by 2030: "This accounts for more than-one third of Russia’s entire airport network."
Airport infrastructure is being systemically upgraded in Russia: "Some 20 runways and 26 terminals have been put into operation since 2021 across the country."
New airport terminals were opened in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Khabarovsk, Magadan, Novosibirsk, Stavropol, Cheboksary, and a number of other cities.
Work in this area is underway through both state efforts and business initiatives: "Such a practice is only welcome. We will continue to provide all necessary assistance to investors."
Contract on supply of MC-21-310s to Aeroflot
The signing of the contract on supply of MC-21-310 aircraft to Aeroflot marks a significant step in the development of Russia’s aviation industry: "This is a very important step in the development of the sector."
MC-21 aircraft currently in production should be delivered to Aeroflot according to schedule, without delays or disruptions: "Aeroflot Group is ordering 90 new MC-21 aircraft. In fact, the issue is about a large-scale long-term contract that will provide a significant workload for our aircraft manufacturers, as well as their suppliers and contractors. I expect it to be implemented in strict accordance with the established schedule, without delays or disruptions."
Supplies of the first MC-21 aircraft to Aeroflot are set to begin as early as next year: "We have promising [aircraft] models, including the medium-haul MC-21. Eighteen such aircraft are currently in production. Their deliveries to Aeroflot are to start as early as next year."
Importance of developing aviation network
A well-developed aviation network is a crucial prerequisite for "connectivity of territories and the transport accessibility of remote regions, including those in the Arctic, Siberia, and the Far East."
Modern airport infrastructure serves as an additional stimulus for Russian regions’ economic growth: "Of course, modern airports provide additional incentives to regional economies, fostering growth in trade, business activity, and tourism, of course. They offer a higher quality of service and faster passenger processing."