Ten years ago on December 17th 2004 An-148-100 regional aircraft performed its maiden flight. It is a truly next-generation aircraft, because it embodies cutting-edge technologies.
An-148 program became the first large commercial program in the territory of the former Soviet Union. Right from the start of the project Antonov Company worked in close cooperation with the customers taking into account their requirements. As a result the aircraft family was created. The jets carry from 68 to 89 passengers; transport VIP-passengers; carry out medevac operations in case of emergencies. At that the aircraft are able to work at high and low temperatures under any weather conditions and may be operated from unpaved runways. An−148 is certified for operation from airfields located at heights of 4100 meters above sea level or less.
Today eight air carriers in three countries of the world (including Russia) operate 25 aircraft of the type. These vehicles have transported over three million passengers and performed over 63,000 flights on domestic and international routes. An-148 liners operated by Rossiya – Russian Airlines (launch An-148 customer in Russia) have set records in terms of monthly flying time (400 hours) and daily flying time (18 hours).
In addition, An-148 jets are operated by EMERCOM, Russian Ministry of Defense and Federal Security Service as well as Rossiya special aircraft division transporting top officials of the Russian Federation.
An-148 aircraft are manufactured by Kiev-based Aviant aviation plant and Voronezh Aircraft Manufacturing Company (also known as VASO, Russia). Over 200 companies from 15 countries of the world supply components and parts for these jets.
Today Antonov Company continues to develop An-148 program. Operation of An-158 aircraft carrying 99 passengers has been started. Five jets of the type are operated by Cubana de Aviacion (Cuba) under a lease agreement with Ilyushin Finance & Co. (Russia).
In addition, Antonov Company is developing new jets in the network of the aircraft family, including An-178 transport aircraft and special-purpose airliners (including the one intended for maritime patrol missions).
