Volga-Dnepr to test first IL-76 freighter

Volga-Dnepr to test first IL-76 freighter    Volga-Dnepr Group, parent company of Russian outsize and heavyweight cargo airline Volga-Dnepr Airlines, said today that the first modified Ilyushin IL-76TD-90VD freighter aircraft will undergo more than 50 test flights before entering service by the end of November.
   In 2001, the EU said the IL-76s, which have 45 tons of capacity, must be re-engined or fitted with hush kits in order to meet Stage 3 noise regulations, or be withdrawn from service.
   The test program has been launched within the 'IL-76 National Project' implemented by Volga-Dnepr, Ilyushin Design Bureau, Perm Aircraft Engine Factory and TAPOiC Aircraft Factory, which aims to bring to the new IL-76 freighter into full compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization noise and emission requirements, and RNP-1 requirements for navigational accuracy.
   The project has been approved and supported by the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Transport.