Sukhoi set to unveil new passenger plane

Russia’s long-awaited new passenger plane, the Sukhoi Superjet 100, is to be unveiled. The new jet, built in the Far East of the country, is expected to replace most of Russia’s outdated short and middle range civil aircraft.

This is the first passenger jet to come out of Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union. It is produced at a former secret military facility in the Far East.

It is hoped the Sukhoi Superjet 100 will mark the beginning of a renaissance in Russia's civil aviation industry.

Aviation officials hope the new aeroplane will have an overseas market as well.

The Sukhoi Superjet-100 is promising to be much cheaper than many of its competitors. The company says that it is going to be more fuel-efficient and more comfortable for passengers.

Vladimir Pirozhkov, the Superjet-100 livery designer, says the idea behind the airliner’s livery was the Russian flag: “I think it’s quite cool and very optimistic and very symbolic”.