United Aircraft is to undertake natural icing tests on three new aircraft models, with prototypes being flown to Arkhangelsk in northern Russia.

The Yakovlev SJ-100 and MC-21-310 have been sent to the city’s Talagi airport, and will be joined by the Ilyushin Il-114-300.

“Specialists will check the operation of the aircraft systems and equipment when ice forms on structural elements,” says the aerospace firm.

“This is one of the mandatory stages of aircraft certification.”

The import-substituted SJ-100 features domestically-sourced components and systems, including Aviadvigatel PD-8 engines respectively.

“Completing this test programme will allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of the anti-icing system in a real-life situation,” says lead flight-test engineer Denis Velizhanin.

Yakovlev also transferred the import-substituted MC-21-310 to Arkhangelsk on 14 March, a couple of days after the SJ-100 arrived.

United Aircraft says the MC-21 – with PD-14 engines – will be flown at altitudes of 1,000-4,000m (3,300-13,100ft) in icing conditions over the White Sea coast.

Both jets will be fitted with video cameras, sensors and other equipment to record various operational parameters.

The Il-114-300, a modernised 68-seat turboprop, will similarly undergo icing tests in the area.

Arkhangelsk regional governor Alexander Tsybulsky says consideration is being given to using the type on routes to St Petersburg, Murmansk, Petrozavodsk and other destinations.

“Our ambitious goal is to use our air fleet to create an airline base for the western Arctic,” he says.

“The region is primarily interested in the new passenger aircraft for underserved routes – where there are often shortages of passenger tickets – as well as for tourist destinations.”

He says the natural icing tests will enable evaluation of the turboprop in Arctic conditions.