Power behind the Sukhoi Superjet 100

On the opening day of India Aviation 2012, United Aircraft Corporation of Russia showcased, the Sukhoi Superjet 100, the latest airliner to enter the Regional Jet market. The exercise involved a 45-minute ride for a group of media personnel. With around 35 on board, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 was airborne after a short take off roll and climbed steeply displaying the high thrust to weight ratio, a feature attributable to the two new SaM 146 1S18 podded engines from PowerJet each delivering thrust of 16,100 pounds. With full authority digital electronic control (FADEC), the SaM 146 1S18 regional engine has received type certification from European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

As per Jacques Desclaux, Chairman and CEO of PowerJet, this version of the engine significantly extends the range of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 Regional Jet. The engines allow the aircraft to operate at higher maximum takeoff weight and provides the aircraft higher range of 4,578 km (2,470 nautical miles) with full passenger load. As of December 31, 2011, the SaM 146 1S18 engines have logged more than 6,500 hours of flying in operations to 40 destinational all over the world. PowerJet is equally owned joint venture between Snecma of France and NPO Saturn of Russia.

The Sukhoi Superjet 100 is the first aircraft to employ this engine. The engine has been conceived and designed to meet customer requirements in respect of fuel burn, cost of operation and dispatch reliability. The engine employs Blisk technology to enhance fuel economy and reduce operating costs. The SaM 146 1S18 engines are the real power behind the Sukhoi Superjet 100.