Flight testing of PD-14 engine was started in November 2015 – Il-76 flying testbed has already performed several test flights with PD-14 engine in Zhukovsky (Moscow Region), Vesti.Finans reports with reference to Russian Minister of Industry and Trade, Denis Manturov.

Four test flights have been completed so far. “The data obtained during first test flights shows that the engine meets all the claimed characteristics,” Manturov said. 

The engine’s certification should be started in 2017; its mass production – in 2018. The program is on schedule, the minister added. PD-14 engine may serve as a basis for development of engines for other types of aircraft, for example, a heavy helicopter. 

PD-14 engine is being developed as a part of a family of engines with a thrust from 12,5 to 18 tons designed for passenger and transport aircraft, including the next-generation MS-21 aircraft, which is being developed by Irkut Corporation. Aviadvigatel is the primary product developer in the network of PD-14 project, Perm Engine Company – leading manufacturer.