Airport reconstruction and possible new aircraft (310 words)

Published: 8/31/2000

According to Krasair the reported discussions with Boeing and Airbus initiated at the Farnborough Air Show are in their very preliminary stages although the airline has expressed interest in the A-320 and the Boeing 737. The airline was also reluctant to confirm reports of interest in the Tu-334 produced by MiG and also the Starliner from US startup Alliance Aircraft, which involves the design resources of Sukhoi through a 100%-owned subsidiary Sukhoi Civil Aircraft. This has led to discussion of possible Russian production of the regional jet aircraft. The company did confirm that they are planning to take delivery of their first Tu-204 in the next one or two months having expected to receive it two months ago. The airline is also reported to be in discussion with Pratt & Whitney regarding the leasing of PS-90 engines, produced by Perm Motors, in which the US producer holds a 25% stake, for installation on the carrier's fleet of Il-76s. The airline has begun the reconstruction of the runway at Krasnoyarsk Airport, its home base. The project will take place over two stages, the first to be completed by the end of the year involves the replacement of 2000 square metres of surface, with further repairs in a second stage being completed next year. The company is unwilling to discuss the exact details of the second-stage repairs, but says the reports of them costing $5.7m are incorrect. Although according to the airline, while they started repairs with their own funding, it is likely they will need additional funds to complete them. The reconstruction of the runways will allow the airport to participate in the development of the polar routes, although to date Krasair has only completed one flight carrying cargo, but is not optimistic about much interest for the service in the short term.

Article ID: 2041