Sukhoi Civil Aircraft is planning for its newly developed Superjet family of the Russian regional jet (RRJ) to have steep-approach capability from its inception at airports such as London City (LCY) in the UK.

Aircraft operating into London City airport must perform a steep 5.5° approach, compared with a standard 3° glidepath angle. To gain clearance for London City airport, manufacturers must demonstrate capability for up to a 7.5° approach.

Speaking at the European Regions Airline Association general assembly in Barcelona, Sukhoi Civil Aircraft deputy general director and commercial director Svetlana Issaeva said the aircraft will have steep-approach capability “from day one...we have made an evaluation on mobility for steep approaches”.

Source: Flight International