VASO completes testing for presidential Ilyushin Il-96

Russia's VASO has completed manufacturer trials on this Ilyushin Il-96-300 widebody, registration number RA96019, in preparation for delivery later this month to Russia's presidential air detachment, which serves the president of Russia and members of the government.

The air detachment already operates aircraft RA96012, RA96016 and RA96018 and with the fourth Ilyushin will be able to maintain full-scale operation with same-type aircraft, allowing withdrawal of its outdated Ilyushin Il-62s. The air detachment order was key to allowing VASO, Russia's largest commercial jetliner manufacturer, maintain production of the Il-96, says parent company United Aircraft.

© UAC

© UAC