Aircraft
UAC Takes Technology Gamble To Give MC-21 Its Edge
The MC-21 features an all-composite, high aspect ratio wing that uses new manufacturing techniques.
Azerbaijan Airlines CEO Jahangil Asgarov (right) celebrates the deal for 10 MC-21s with IFC general director Alexander Roubstov (center) and UAC president Yuri Slyusar (left).
Azerbaijan Airlines CEO Jahangil Asgarov (right) celebrates the deal for 10 MC-21s with IFC general director Alexander Roubstov (center) and UAC president Yuri Slyusar (left).

United Aircraft Corp. (UAC) has always been keen to stress that the long-awaited MC-21 twinjet is more than just a low budget alternative to Western narrowbody rivals like the Airbus A320neo and the Boeing 737 Max. Starting with its all-new high-aspect ratio wing, the new Russian contender makes extensive use of weight-saving composites. The MC-21 airframe also uses advanced aluminum structures from European metals specialists including Brotje and Durr.