Russian leasing company AviaLizing has signed a "contractual agreement" with Sukhoi Civil Aircraft for production slots for 24 Superjet 100s, anticipating an order from UTair, to replace 24 long-serving 68-seat Tupolev Tu-134s. The airline says it may double the figure if the Superjet proves its merits in first year of service.
Sukhoi Civil Aircraft president Victor Subbotin says that if UTair selects another type, Avializing will have to place its Superjets with another carrier.
All 24 aircraft are in factory standard configuration with 96 seats, built to Superjet 100-95 standard.