Air TransportRostec chief claims MC-21 jetliner is superior to Boeing 737 and Airbus A320
In an interview with RIA Novosti, Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov claimed that Russia’s new MC-21 airliner will be “more modern and comfortable” than its Western rivals, including the Boeing 737 series and Airbus A320 family.
He pointed to wider aisles, larger windows, and more spacious overhead bins as features that would provide passengers with greater comfort.
Chemezov also highlighted the extensive use of composite materials in load-bearing structures — particularly the wing — as a key differentiator, asserting a higher level of “technical novelty” than Western single-aisles in the same class.
The MC-21 is said to be about six tons heavier after design changes, reducing its range and efficiency, according to observers.
Shorter version
Rostec CEO confirmed that the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is developing a shorter version of the MC-21, dubbed MC-21-200 and seating about 153 passengers compared to the 175 of the current MC-21-310. A preliminary technical design is expected by the end of 2025, followed by funding approval from the Russian government.
“In terms of comfort, the MC-21 is definitely better. It has wider aisles between seats, larger windows, and more spacious overhead bins. Overall, it is very comfortable to fly,” Chemezov told RIA Novosti.
According to the executive, mass production of the import-substituted MC-21 — now relying entirely on Russian-built components — is scheduled to start in 2026. Launch customer Aeroflot expects to take delivery of 108 jets by 2030, with plans to expand its MC-21 fleet to 200 aircraft by 2033.
However, industry observers note that the program continues to face hurdles, particularly after the forced replacement of Western technologies with domestic alternatives, which could impact performance and development timelines.
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