The First Serial MS‑21‑310: How the Irkutsk Plant Lifted a New Symbol of Russian Aviation

Take‑off of a New Generation

On March 31, from the airfield of the Irkutsk Aviation Plant, the first serial MS‑21‑310 rose into the sky. The aircraft bore the tail number 73362 and the factory designation MS.0014 – a clear sign that it was produced fully according to serial documentation and technologies, not as a one‑off experiment.

What the MS‑21‑310 Is

The MS‑21 is a modern narrow‑body airliner designed to replace aging Soviet models. The 310 version offers a longer range and refined aerodynamics. The name “MS‑21” points to “modernisation” and the state of affairs in 2021, the year the project secured government backing.

The Crew Who Took It to the Skies

The flight was led by a crew informally called “Yakovleva.” It consisted of:

• Roman Taskaev – captain, known for his experience on wide‑body aircraft;
• Sergey Mikhailyuk – first officer, a specialist in test flights;
• Andrey Voropaev – flight engineer, responsible for the aircraft’s technical readiness.

Their combined effort saw the first serial flight completed successfully, proving the MS‑21‑310 is ready for further entry into service.

Why It Matters for Russia

Launching the first serial example marks the shift from prototypes to mass production. It means the Russian aerospace sector can now offer airlines a home‑grown, competitive product instead of relying on imports. Serial production also opens up new jobs at the Irkutsk plant and throughout the supply chain.

How to See the MS‑21‑310 in Person

The Irkutsk Aviation Plant welcomes visitors as part of special programmes. Tourists can sign up for a visit that includes the assembly hall, quality‑control departments and, of course, the flight‑ready aircraft. Tours usually feature a short briefing on the MS‑21’s technological innovations and a chance to ask engineers questions.

Things to Keep in Mind When Planning the Trip

• Transport: Irkutsk is reachable by train from Moscow or by plane to the international airport. From the airport to the plant it’s about a half‑hour by taxi or public transport.
• Season: Summer brings milder Siberian weather, making city travel easier. Winter can bring snow delays, but it also offers a glimpse of the plant operating when most aerospace factories elsewhere are shut down.
• Booking: Tours generally require advance registration; it’s best to book a few days ahead and mention your interest in the MS‑21‑310.

What Else to See in Irkutsk

The city is the gateway to Lake Baikal, so after the plant visit you’ll want to stroll along the waterfront, drop into local museums and try Siberian cuisine. The mix of high‑tech intrigue and natural beauty makes for a well‑rounded itinerary.

What Travelers Will Experience

Watching the first serial MS‑21‑310 in action lets you feel Russian engineering taking flight. It’s not just a tech demo; it’s a sign that the country can produce modern airliners that meet global market standards. For aviation enthusiasts, the visit is a rare chance to see a process usually hidden from the public.

The Irkutsk plant, now opening its doors to tourists, shows that aviation can become part of cultural tourism. If you’re curious about technology and want to see the inside of a contemporary Russian airliner, plan a trip to Irkutsk and put a stop at the MS‑21‑310 on your route. It’s an opportunity to watch history in motion and perhaps witness the next wave of domestic aircraft development.

Based on materials from: frequentflyers.ru.