The solemn presentation of Special Certificate of the Interstate Aviation Committee Aviation Registry has taken place today at 12-00 on the Tu-204SM aircraft (tail number 64151) on the MAKS-2011 static display, Tupolev reports. AEX.ru

This event marks the transit from flight testing to certification testing. The completion of certification testing and start of Tu-204SM deliveries are scheduled on 2012.

The leasing procedure for these jets is being elaborated at the moment; the sources of finance and leasing deals conditions are being coordinated. The possible means of state support of the project and aircraft’s operators are also elaborated. The special attention is paid to the organization of post-sales support, continued airworthiness and work with Tu-204SM’s potential customers.

Тu-204SМ is a new jet in Тu-204/Тu-214 family, having an improved aircraft performance and operational characteristics. The experience of Tu-204/Tu-214’s operation was fully taken into account during the development of new jet. The production of the jet is being carried out by Aviastar-SP in Ulyanovsk.

Тu-204SМ has the maximum takeoff weight of 108 tons and is able to carry up to 215 passengers. its range with 215 passengers onboard is 4800 km, with 166 passengers (two-class configuration) – 6000 km.

The design service life of the airframe and systems is increased up to 60 000 flight hours / 45 000 flights/ 25 years.