First SSJ100 test flight with the Saberlets performed successfully

The saber-like configuration of the tips installed on to the Sukhoi Superjet 100 turned out to be the result of a number of research, engineering  and experimental activities carried out by the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company with the assistance of Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI).

The geometry of the tips was determined with the implementation of the innovative methods of 3D optimization based on numerical computation called Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) – the unique TsAGI know-how used in Russian aviation industry in particular for Sukhoi Superjet 100 program.

The results of research and experiments showed that the installation of the saber-like tips allows to simultaneously improve the take-off and landing performance and decrease the fuel consumption for not less than 3%. The expected improvement of the take-off and landing characteristics will be obvious for the carriers operating the aircraft at regional runways and in hot weather conditions as well as on mountain aerodromes (Hot&High).

Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company is consequently implementing the Sukhoi Superjet 100 improvement program aiming at market expansion and the increase of the number of Customers, the current Operators satisfaction level growth and the maintenance of the high competitive level of the product. The wing tips installation being the part of the improvement program will provide the operators with cost cut up to $70 000 per year per one SSJ100», points the President of the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft  Company Alexander Rubtsov.

The end of a full-scale programme of ground and flight tests will result in the certification of the SSJ100 with the horizontal tips – saberlets and they will be offered as an option to the Customers. The installation of the tips is possible not only to new aircraft but to the already delivered aircraft as well.

VASO (Voronezh aircraft manufacturer) is the manufacturer of the saberlets kits, the materials used are certified in Russia as well as abroad.

Mauritanian carrier becomes the first in Africa to fly the newest version of the best-selling 737

"We are proud to be the first carrier in Africa to operate the 737 MAX," said Mohamed Radhi Bennahi, chief executive officer of Mauritania Airlines International. "The introduction of the 737 MAX into the growing Mauritanian fleet will help to profitably grow our network as we introduce new routes to Europe and the Middle East."

 
According to Boeing, the 737 MAX delivers the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market by incorporating the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements. The efficiency gains have helped make the MAX the fastest selling airplane in Boeing history with more than 4,000 orders to date from 92 customers worldwide. 

"We are delighted that Mauritania Airlines International becomes the first operator of the MAX in Africa and I would like to thank everyone at the airline for their partnership and continued faith in the 737 program," said Marty Bentrott, senior vice president sales for Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Russia & Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737 MAX will be a great addition to its fleet providing greater efficiency, range and passenger comfort to its operations."

Mauritania Airlines International serves more than 10 destinations across Africa and Europe from its base at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport in Mauritania's capital city of Nouakchott.