Re-engined with PowerJet SaM 146 turbofans, Russia’s Beriev Be-200 amphibian is scheduled to make its maiden flight in March 2020, with Russian certification delayed until November 2021.

• The first of several new engines for the programme will be supplied in December 2019.
• The project leaders are hoping to eventually win type certification from Europe’s EASA and USA’s FAA, thus opening up international market opportunities for the aircraft.
• The little known US firm intends to dry- and wet-lease its Be-200s to operators worldwide.
• Project received a new stimulus in February this year – the schedule was finally sketched and its various aspects were coordinated with Russia’s ministry for industry and trade paving the way for a contract signing in May.
• The new engine option will increase the Be-200’s operational ceiling, allowing the aircraft to be ferried between its mission destinations at altitudes above 10,000m.
• This, in turn, will result in as much as a 17 per cent improved fuel efficiency compared to the Ukrainian-made D-436TP. The weight of the aircraft will not change.