Antonov Enterprise start tests of first serial An-158

Kyiv-based Antonov State Enterprise has started tests of the first mass-produced new generation An-158 regional jet aircraft, the company's press service reported.

The aircraft was assembled at Antonov Serial Plant at the order of Russian leasing company Ilyushin Finance Company, the press service said.

"The maiden flight lasted 2 hours and 20 minutes. The test program envisages ten flights," the report says.

The tests of the aircraft and its transfer it to the customer – the Cuban airline Cubana de Aviacion are scheduled for April 2013.

According to the Ukrainian side, the airline plans to use the new An-158 for domestic flights and international flights to Central America and Canada.

According to the press service, in the fall of 2012, ten members of the Cuban airline's flight and engineering personnel underwent theoretical, practical and simulator training at Antonov State Enterprise.

Under a contract signed in 2011 by Cubana de Aviacion, Antonov Enterprise and Ilyushin Finance Company, two more An-158 planes will be assembled in Ukraine for the Cuban airline this year, and another three in 2014, the press service said.

The An-158 is a regional jet aircraft that can carry up to 99 passengers. The aircraft's range is 2,500 kilometers. Mass production is conducted at Antonov Serial Plant in Kyiv.

OJSC Ilyushin Finance Co. (IFC, Russia) said that the market demand for the An-148/158/168 family until 2025 was estimated at no less than 400 aircraft. The order portfolio for the aircraft is estimated at 130.