The Group predicts its investment in the 50 tons capacity ramp loading freighter is likely to double as more new aircraft join its fleet to meet global demand for the IL-76TD-90VD's unique operating capability. Volga-Dnepr has already signed a contract for another two aircraft which are scheduled for delivery in 2011.
Unlike old versions of the IL-76 which have been banned from Europe's skies since 2000 after failing to meet strict noise and emissions requirements imposed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the new IL-76TD-90VD was approved for global operations in 2006. It now frequently operates to major markets in Europe, the United States, Japan and Australia.
The IL-76TD-90VD has proved to be both a commercial and environmental success. A 7-9% more efficient fuel burn over old IL-76s increased its operating range to 10,200kms. New avionics on Volga-Dnepr's IL-76TD-90VD also enable the aircraft to reduce navigation costs by using the new navigation system, another contributor to the freighter's fuel efficiency. The modernization of the aircraft has also reduced the number of crew required to four.
Dennis Gliznoutsa, Group Commercial Director (Charters) for Volga-Dnepr, said: 'Our investment in another IL-76TD-90VD will be welcome news for our customers around the world that want to take advantage of all of the operational and commercial benefits the aircraft offers. It has proven to be a highly cost efficient cargo aircraft that is extremely popular with customers, particularly in Europe and the US. For example, the IL-76TD-90VD can operate a direct flight from Europe to Kabul and it was also the only aircraft capable of delivering urgently-needed relief supplies from the USA and Canada to Haiti after the recent earthquake.'
Volga-Dnepr's main partners in the IL-76TD-90VD modernization program are UAC - Transport Aircraft, Tashkent Aircraft Production Corporation, Perm Engine Company and Ilyushin Aviation Complex. A further 50 companies supplying components and equipment for the new aircraft are also seeing the economic benefit.
