Volga-Dnepr to reintroduce IL-76 freighter
Russia’s Volga-Dnepr Group, parent company of outsize and heavyweight cargo airline Volga-Dnepr Airlines and scheduled cargo airline AirBridge Cargo, is about to reintroduce the Ilyushin 76TD-90VD freighter aircraft into operation.
The IL-76’s have been out of service since the beginning of the decade after falling foul of various international ground noise levels. In 2003, Volga-Dnepr initiated the IL-76 modernization program in partnership with the Ilyushin Design Bureau, Perm Aircraft Engine Factory and TAPOiC Aircraft Factory.
After more than 50 test flights Volga-Dnepr Group’s first new-build IL-76TD-90VD freighter was given clearance January to operate globally after being awarded a Chapter 4 noise certificate by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Volga-Dnepr said the modified plane will operate worldwide, including the European, North American, Australian and Japanese markets from which it was previously banned.
“We are delighted that all of the commitment, hard work and investment that has been put into this important project since 2002 has resulted in the successful launch of the IL-76TD-90VD,” said Alexey Isaikin, president of the Volga-Dnepr Group. “This new aircraft is a welcome addition to Volga-Dnepr’s fleet. With its increased capacity to 50 tons and global operating capability, it will be an extremely popular aircraft for our customers all over the world.”