Armenian carrier Armavia, the launch customer of advanced Russian Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft, refused to purchase the second liner, Lenta.ru reports. The reason for the refusal was not specified by Armavia.

Sukhoi Civil Aircraft (SCAC) had the firm contract with Armenian airline on delivery of two jets and an option for another two ones. The first Superjet was delivered to Armavia on April 19th 2011; the second one should have been purchased by the carrier during the period from July 20th to July 30th 2012.

At present only two airlines are operating Superjet aircraft – Armavia and Aeroflot. Russian mass media reported in early July that the Russian carrier is unable to operate four out of eight SSJs due to technical problems. Sukhoi explained that these problems are connected with false warning generated by air conditioning system. Mass media also reported in March 2012 that Superjet aircraft perform fewer flights than planned due to numerous faults.

Sukhoi has not provided any feedback regarding Armavia’s statement yet and so it is unknown if the Russian company would claim compensation for breach of the firm contract.

Superjet is the brand-new Russian advanced aircraft, which was being developed in 2000s. Its first deliveries were scheduled for 2008-2009, but these dates were postponed several times. At present Sukhoi has firm orders for about 200 SSJs with an option for another 100 liners.