Yakutia intends to replace An-24s by the foreign aircraft, Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports. It has been declared by the first vice-premier of the republic’s government, Alexey Struchkov, after negotiations with Bombardier – the manufacturer of Dash 8 Q400 aircraft.

According to Struchkov, these medium-haul liners intended for 78 passengers are optimal for flight distance less than 2000 km. And it is the average Yakut distance. In addition, these jets are very fuel-efficient, which is very important for the country with one of the highest prices for aviation fuel.

However, at present these are only intentions caused by the requirement for replacement of An-24 ageing fleet. The more presentive conversation will be started after the testing of Q400 in Yakutia in the coming winter. If the testing would be completed successfully then the agreement on delivery of four such aircraft to a Yakut airline in 2013-2014 may be signed.