Russian aircraft manufacturer Irkut Corp. has applied to Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency, Rosaviatsia, to begin MC-21 EASA certification, ATWonline reported.

The Russian authority is forming a group to include Rosaviatsia and manufacturer representatives to cooperate with EASA and organize necessary flight tests. Irkut is part of United Aircraft Corp.

Irkut rolled out the MC-21-300 aircraft June 8 at its factory in Irkutsk. Its first flight is planned for December 2016-February 2017. Delivery to a first customer is expected before the end of 2018.

In August, Rosaviatsia announced it is continuing MC-21 certification in accordance with Russian standards.

Last year, the Russian government transferred the powers for aircraft design, engines, propellers and airfields certification from Moscow-based Interstate Aviation Committee to Rosaviatsia.