Flight International online news 10:30 GMT: The first flight of the re-engined Ilyushin Il-76TD-90VD took place at the Chkalov airfield near Tashkent in Uzbekistan on 5 August.
Outsize freight specialist Volga-Dnepr will be the first carrier to receive the -90VD version of the heavy-lift transport. The company will initially take two of the modernised aircraft, which have more efficient engines and upgraded avionics.
The modification involves installing Perm PS-90A-76 powerplants, to replace the type’s D-30KP engines, as well as a ‘glass cockpit’ with liquid-crystal displays.
Volga-Dnepr Group president Alexei Isaikin said the first flight is the result of a four-year co-operative effort with Ilyushin, the Perm engine factory, and the Tashkent Aviation Production Organisation plant which carries out Il-76 modification work.
Upgrade of the aircraft will enable the Il-76TD-90VD to meet tighter noise regulations.