MC-21 simulator at MAKS

Irkut Corporation is demonstrating an L3D category fixed-base simulator (FBS) for its future MC-21 mainline passenger aircraft at MAKS 2013 air show. The simulator allows for imitating the operation of flight controls and avionics. It is also being used now as a testbed for a number of technological solutions.

The greatest share of development work was completed by CKT Company, which also develops an MC-21 full-flight simulator together with the Dutch company SIM Industries. 

The MC-21 FBS incorporates the Rockwell Collins EP-8000 visualization system, which is also used in the Airbus A320 full-flight simulators operated by MC-21 launch customer Aeroflot. Elsewhere in Russia, the EP-8000 is used in A320 simulators run by S7 Airlines and Ural Airlines. Rockwell Collins has delivered 131 examples of the system for use in simulation equipment by a number of manufacturers. According to representatives of the US company, the EP-8000 has 10 times greater performance than the previous generation EP-1000 system, while weighing less and taking up less space; it also offers enhanced graphics and realistic visual effects. The system may be reprogrammed for service life extension purposes. 

Irkut says the MC-21 simulator is a part of an integrated MC-21 pilot training program, which comprises the MPL2, CR, and IR rating phases. The MC-21 family will include three modifications ranging 168 to 230 seat capacity. As for now the first flight is planned for 2015 while the Russian certification and the first deliveries are expected to start in 2017.