Tri-partite agreement over development programme (147 words)

Published: 6/22/2001

Following April's general aerospace cooperation agreement with the Russian aerospace agency RAKA, Boeing has signed a memorandum of understanding with both Sukhoi and Ilyushin, relating to a joint feasibility study on the development of a regional aircraft. The aircraft, which will ultimately be produced in Russia , will carry 50-90 passengers and have a range of 1000 nm. Sukhoi's involvement was no surprise, given the company's publicly stated interest in developing a product in this segment, in cooperation with a foreign industrial partner. Its discussions with the ill fated Alliance Aircraft venture were further evidence of its intentions. However, the inclusion of Ilyushin, despite a close relationship with Boeing, was not expected, given recent its commitment to develop a regional 100 seater jet with India, in the form of the Il-214.

Article ID: 2599