A Volga-Dnepr Airlines IL-76ТD-90VD has made its first landing on an ice airfield in Antarctica, opening up opportunities to support energy exploration projects on the continent.
The freighter completed a series of runs on the Novolazarevskaya Antarctic Research Station runway to check performance capability and define the engine reverse thrust application range.
Flight checks were performed in order to incorporate amendments to the IL-76ТD-90VD’s Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) for ice airfield operations.
After the amendment of its AFM, the IL-76ТD-90VD airplane will be approved to operate to Antarctica airfields.
Georgy Sokolov, Sales Director of Volga-Dnepr UK, said: “Obtaining approval to fly to adverse weather regions expands Volga-Dnepr Airlines’ operating boundaries.
"Active exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic regions is currently underway, and with the IL-76ТD-90VD airplane meeting ICAO’s existing and advanced requirements, and, most importantly, being fitted with environment friendly engines, it will provide a reliable transport solution for our customers."
