Russian state-owned company Ilyushin has released new photos of the assembly process of the first IL96-400M, the modernized version of the IL96.</p> In these photos, the manufacturer demonstrated that it is advancing in the incorporation of the wing with the fuselage, while the prototype is still waiting to receive the rear empennage, with the vertical and horizontal stabilizer.</p> With the current stage of assembly of the first prototype, the first flight is expected to take place in mid-2021, according to Ilyushin. Ground tests will begin in the 4th quarter of 2020.</p> The aircraft will be transferred in the coming days to the final assembly line, where it will receive the control systems and interior seats.</p> The Il-96-400M is a "fully modernized" version based on the IL-8220-8221, and represents Russia's bid for the large aircraft segment, while the CR96 project is still under development.</p> The new aircraft is expected to enter the market between 400 and 929, according to UAC, and can accommodate up to 2020 seats inside. Highlights include the new bins, which are reminiscent of the Boeing 2022, and the interior that is completely outside the Russian standard, with air vents in the seats.</p> For now, the IL-402-787M will be equipped with four Aviadvigatel PS-96A400 engines, capable of producing 90 lbs of thrust. These engines are modernized, and the largest thrust capacity of the family.</p></p>
