Tu-204 is a medium-range jet passenger aircraft. This unit was developed in the 80s in the Department of the Tupolev Design Bureau. With its help, the creators intended to replace the Tu-154, which was outdated at that time. There are various modifications of this aircraft: VIP version, passenger, cargo and special. The Tu-204 aircraft meets all safety, emissions and noise standards, so these models can be operated all over the world. More on this below.
Design
The Tu-204 aircraft is a cantilever monoplane of a normal design. Its swept wings are located quite low. Two of them are installed on special pylons. Their locations are under the wings. This gives the model a unique style. At the end of each wing there are winglets. This helps to reduce inductive drag and increase In addition, they are equipped with double-slot flaps. This important elements. There are also slats here. They regulate the load-bearing properties of a given aircraft. They are located along the leading edge of the wing. The landing gear has three legs and a nose strut. The power plant includes RB211-535E4 or 2 PS-90A turbofans
Story
After Russian civil aviation had been operating Tu-154 aircraft for 2 years, in 1973, the Design Bureau Department began to work on a future replacement for this model. At first, a proposal was put forward to deeply modernize the Tu-154 and develop many layouts and various new schemes. In the end, the scientists chose a three-engine model with a wide fuselage, which they called the TU-204 aircraft.
This project was approved by the government in 1981. However, during this process, the designers decided to abandon the tail engine. After which the project was reworked. As a result, the current image of the planned aircraft emerged.
During development, scientists actively applied innovative design methods, using electronic computers. In order to find the optimal aerodynamic layout in certain special tubes, they had to test dozens of mock-ups. In addition, to reduce the weight and increase the strength of this unit, they used their share in the mass of the specified model to be at least 14%.
When the design was completed, the TU-204 aircraft began to be mass-produced at the Ulyanovsk Aviation Industrial Complex named after D. F. Ustinov. This is a reliable fact. And the first Tu-204 aircraft, reviews of which were positive, were built in Moscow in a community with experienced significant production of the ASTC named after. A. N. Tupolev and UAPC.
Tests
This process involved 2 prototypes. Special on-board systems of this model were tested at many stands.
At the beginning of January 1989, the initial flight of the specified Tu-204 aircraft took off from the Ramenskoye airfield. Based on the results of the tests, some modifications were made to the design. Namely, the production technology was improved. At the same time, considerable attention was paid to testing new digital systems. Scrupulousness in this regard led to a positive result. Experts have developed 23 versions of the onboard automatic control system using the steering wheel. Moreover, each has been tested for reliability and numerous flight tests. All this took a long time. In addition, at that time, economic difficulties began in the state. This resulted in funding for the program being reduced. As a result, the time frame for receiving necessary documents and tests.
In the 90s, budget funding for this project was completely stopped. This led to a halt in certification tests, and the Tu-204 aircraft, which still needed to undergo operational studies, was waiting in the wings.
As already mentioned, due to the fact that in the 90s the economic situation in the state sharply deteriorated, the flight test budget was practically zeroed out. In order to complete this work, scientists had to take extraordinary steps. For example, they agreed to transport goods for a fee. In this case, the tests were carried out in parallel with commercial flights. This made it difficult to finish financing the project. After diligent efforts, the scientists managed to obtain the necessary certificate in 1994.
Exploitation
At the end of February 1996, the first flight of the new aircraft was carried out on a commercial basis. The Tu-204 plane was flying Vnukovo Airlines from the capital to Mineralnye Vody.
It was assumed that the Tu-204 should replace the Tu-154. However, a sudden drop in funding for the aircraft industry has hampered the development of aircraft, and this has reduced the speed of production. The result is a small number of models aviation companies, high cost of spare parts and maintenance, frequent downtime. All this led to a drop in the competitiveness of this aircraft, especially in comparison with Western Airbus-320 and Boeing-737, which turned out to be more economical to operate and cheaper.
In the 2000s, at least 10 models were released every year. As a rule, their consumers were government agencies.
Since serial production began, namely in 1990, 75 Tu-204 aircraft of different variations have seen the light of day. In February 2013, only 50 air units of this family were in active use.
Prospects
Initially, the Tu-204 aircraft was very unlucky in this regard. According to the preliminary plan of the designers, it was supposed to be made mass-produced, and a completely new plant located in Ulyanovsk was built specifically for its production. However, as noted above, after the collapse of the USSR, much less funds began to be allocated for the needs of the aviation industry. The market economy has replaced the planned one. As a result of this, Tu-204 aircraft replaced used aircraft from a Western manufacturer. In addition, over time, the model has become outdated in many respects. One of the reasons that it was no longer used was that the Tu-204 crew consists of 3 people, while most modern aircraft require only 2. This entails additional costs for maintaining pilots.
Currently, about 10 of these models are produced per year. At the same time, as a rule, they are popular in the SLO "Russia" and the Air Force. Due to the fact that Ulyanovsk cannot establish mass production and special maintenance, Tu-204 aircraft are not in significant demand among most companies. However, according to experts, the latest MS-21 model is able to compete with the foreign Boeing 737. According to recent information, major carriers such as Red Wings and Transaero have often indicated that they are interested in purchasing aircraft units of this type. This suggests that the Tu-204 aircraft is quite in demand, expert reviews of which indicate that it is too early to classify it as a past stage of aircraft design. UAC and the Ministry of Industry and Trade are investing considerable sums in these projects, which exist only on paper. These include MS-21, which is expected to go on line only in 2020.
Description of the technical characteristics of the Tu-204 aircraft
In this case, the following is taken into account:
- Crew - 3 people.
- Two turbofan engines - “PS-90A”.
- The wingspan/area is 42.0 m/184.17 m².
- The length/height of the aircraft is 46.0/13.9 m.
- Weight: takeoff (maximum)/empty - 94,600 kg/58,300 kg.
- Cruising speed is 830 km/h.
- Practical ceiling - 12,100 m.
- The maximum range is 2900 km.
- Availability of traction of 16,140 kgf.
- Weight: maximum takeoff/landing - 94.6 t/47 t; equipped model - 58.3 tons.
- Flight range up to 3700 km.
Modifications
Currently, there are several variations of this air unit. Each of them was carefully worked out by the creators in order to obtain the desired result. Next, let's look at them in a little more detail.
"Tu-204"
As mentioned above, the take-off weight of this basic version is 94.6 tons. For the first time, this Tu-204 aircraft, the photo of which is provided in this text, took off on August 17, 1990 (scheduled flight). In addition, a cargo version of the model was developed. The design of the TU-204 aircraft is as elaborate as possible by the designers. The commercial load of this equipment does not exceed 30 tons.
"Tu-204-100"
This version has PS-90A engines and Russian avionics. Its effectiveness is quite high. This is an essential fact. The cabin of the Tu-204-100 aircraft can accommodate 210 passengers. Certification of this aircraft took place in the winter of 1995.
"Tu-204-200"
This model is a modification of the Tu-204-100. This aircraft is equipped with additional fuel tanks, which are necessary for a longer flight range. In addition, specialists from the Ulyanovsk Aviastar plant built only one specified unit with onboard number RA-64036. Now this model is being produced in Kazan.
"Tu-204-120"
“Tu-204-120” and “Tu-204-220” are modifications of “Tu-204-100” and “Tu-204-200”, respectively. They are equipped with Western avionics and (2 × 19,500 kgf) - English-made Rolls-Royce. This innovation was made in order to expand the consumer properties of the model, which first took to the air in August 1992. Overseas deliveries charter airline Cairo Aviaton to Egypt have been produced on this aircraft since 1998. After this, the specified Tupolev aircraft, photos of which are in this text, were supplied to China. The cockpit of this model is made in English. This facilitates deliveries to other countries. For the first time in the history of Russian aircraft manufacturing, this aircraft unit was certified in accordance with certain European standards.
"Tu-204-300"
This model (formerly Tu-234) is shortened by 6 meters in comparison with the basic fuselage. This aircraft can accommodate no more than 162 passengers, but initially it was planned to accommodate 142. Seats on the TU-204-300 aircraft are divided as follows: 8 business class and 134 economy. This implementation is important. This emphasizes the unique style of this Tu-204 modification. Best places, of course, will be in business class. This unit was developed in three variations. Their flight ranges are 9250, 7500 and 3400 km. As a result, the Tu-204-300 was recognized as the first aircraft with two engines that can fly from the capital of the Russian Federation to Vladivostok without stopping. The maximum take-off weight of this aircraft is 107.5 tons. This model is equipped with: the domestic KSPNO-204 avionics complex and two PS-90A engines. The Tu-204-300 first took off in August 2003, after which it was demonstrated at the MAKS-2003 aerospace show. It was certified on May 14, 2005. Its serial production was established at the Ulyanovsk Aviastar plant.
"Tu-204-300A"
These planes civil aviation used for administrative transportation over a distance not exceeding 9600 km. The model seats only 26 passengers. Fuel filling - 42 t.
"Tu-206"
This aircraft is still being developed by experts. The interesting thing is that this device uses liquefied natural gas as fuel. These aircraft began to be produced on the basis of such aircraft as the Tu-204-100. One of the main problems in this case is the placement of vessels with blue fuel, which requires a considerable volume.
"Tu-214"
This model is a modification of the Tu-204. The maximum take-off weight of this unit was increased to 110.75 tons, and the payload size was increased to 25.2 tons. The cargo modification aircraft was certified in accordance with Russian AP-25 standards, which are harmonized with Western FAR-25 and JAR -252. Serial production has been established at the Kazan Aviation Association named after. S. P. Gorbunova. The first takeoff of this model took place in 1989. These USSR civil aviation aircraft were launched only in 1997. That is, after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In April 2010, this aircraft began to be produced exclusively in special configurations. However, they stopped creating it in a commercial version, as it was unprofitable. Although a large carrier, Transaero, became interested in purchasing this unit.
"Tu-204SM"
This is a deeply improved Tu-204 aircraft. In comparison with the Tu-204-100, its maximum take-off weight has increased significantly. Also in this model the avionics were updated. Because of this, the number of crew was reduced to two people, reducing seats on the TU-204 aircraft and leaving the ship without an on-board engineer. This is done in accordance with world practice for models of this class.
In addition, the Tu-204SM aircraft has undergone some changes.
- Modernization of the PS-90A2 turbofan engine. This was accompanied by a decrease in life cycle cost and an increase in the time between repairs and assigned resources of units and main elements (for the hot part - 10,000 cycles, and for the cold part - up to 20,000).
- Updated APU "TA-18-200". In this case, the altitude of launch and operation was increased. New equipment was introduced that performs the necessary functions that meet certain advanced and modern requirements of ICAO and European control.
- The chassis has been modernized. In the design of this part, all aspects that correspond to the service life of the airframe were taken into account.
- The aircraft interior has been improved.
- The crew has been reduced to 2 pilots.
- A control system for general aircraft units (CAA) has already been developed and is awaiting installation. Maintenance and diagnostics have also been improved.
- The following systems have been modernized: energy saving, hydraulic, fuel and air conditioning.
At the end of December 2010, the flight test of the TU-204SM fell. It was carried out by honored test pilot Viktor Minashkin. This process went well. However, the tests of this updated aircraft were carried out with a slight delay. At a press conference, the general director of the aircraft plant, Sergei Dementyev, told the audience that the test flight of this model was planned for December 17, 2010. However, he emphasized that the work on assembling aircraft of this type follows a given schedule.
The Aviastar-SP enterprise plans to produce 44 Tu-204SM aircraft by 2016, intended for the large enterprise Red Wings Airlines. According to preliminary information, at least $1.8 billion has been allocated to finance this project.
In mid-January 2012, the Deputy Prime Minister of Russia spoke at the famous Ulyanovsk aircraft manufacturing enterprise called Aviastar-SP. According to Dmitry Rogozin, certification of the new passenger-type Tu-204SM aircraft will end in June, and from the middle of the year it will be possible to talk about its serial production.
Bottom line
Having read the above, everyone can have an exact idea of what the aircraft being described is and what variations there are. In general, Tupolev aircraft fully comply with certain standards. Currently, air units of this family are in considerable demand. Technical and flight characteristics devices of this type are at the proper level. However, the developers do not stop there and continue to improve aircraft of this type.
Despite the significant lost time, the Tu-204 passenger aircraft, according to experts, has good operational and export potential. In terms of its main indicators, it is not inferior to the leading foreign analogues of Boeing and Airbus in terms of commercial success (primarily this concerns the last of more than twenty modifications, the “three hundred”) and has an important competitive advantage for domestic operators in the form of more affordable price. The Tu-204 project was born in hard times and was developed for a long time, but today it is successfully used by several airlines.
Start of the project
The development of the project for a new airliner was initiated by Minister I. S. Silaev in 1982, and a year earlier, the government decree as a whole formulated the main task assigned to the Design Bureau named after. A. N. Tupolev. This passenger aircraft, previously named Tu-204, was supposed to meet the future requirements of international air carriers, and therefore be similar in appearance to foreign models that marked the main trend in the development of aviation technology. Similar characteristics provide for identical approaches to achieving them. This is what happened with the Tu-204. The design of a monoplane with a low-lying long swept wing and two engines suspended from it on pylons is atypical for the Tupolev team; in this case it was used by them for the first time. This does not mean that plagiarism took place (in fact, Boeing and Airbus are also very similar in layout). However, the design included many technological innovations from the very beginning.
Constructive innovations
The designers were the first to use the automated “Diana” system, with the help of which they were able to quickly and efficiently calculate the airframe’s power elements for stress, deformation and vibration frequencies. The design used many revolutionary composite polymer materials at that time, seamless skin and other interesting approaches that significantly improved the aerodynamics of the fuselage and planes. Completely new technologies for the domestic aircraft industry were first introduced on the Tu-204. This applies to the fly-by-wire control system, electronic digital control of engine modes, digital computer units and many other innovations that were not used on previous generations of aircraft.
At the same time, the designers placed great importance on reliability. In case of failure, a fourfold redundancy of the aircraft control system is provided.
Modifications
Fine-tuning, taking into account the comments of representatives of the airlines that operated the Tu-204, led to the appearance of two dozen variations of the aircraft. They differ from each other in power plants, flight characteristics, on-board electronics and even size. Thus, the Tu-204-100 modification has a greater carrying capacity compared to the base model (take-off weight - 103 tons with a flight range of 4.6 thousand km) and is designed for 210 passengers. “Dvuhsotka” (the second name of the Tu-214 aircraft) has additional fuel tanks. The Tu-204-120 was also produced (5 copies were made) - it was equipped with imported avionics, and the power plant was equipped with Rolls-Royce engines. This variant was supplied to Egypt for Cairo Aviation.
The specific requirements of the domestic air carrier Vladivostok Air, which operates long-haul flights, prompted the design bureau to create a “long-range” version of the Tu-214-300, capable of covering the distance from Vladivostok to Moscow or St. Petersburg. There are also modifications built for the presidential administration's fleet.
General comfort
Initially, the aircraft was created for operation on domestic and international routes, so a lot of attention was paid to comfort. The interior and layout are well thought out, the seats are ergonomically impeccable (even in the economy class cabin), and all conditions have been created to meet the needs of passengers during long-distance flights, including through the best household, sanitary and kitchen equipment. According to reviews, the lighting system, mounted in such a way as to create unobtrusive but effective illumination, deserves high praise. Each passenger has a personal video entertainment center built into the back of the front seat.
Seating arrangement
The variety of modifications involves different internal layouts, as well as a different number of passengers carried for all variants of the Tu-204 aircraft. The cabin of the base model was designed for 210 people, the Tu-204-100 accommodates from 176 to 194 seats, and the Tu-204-300 has 157 seats. There is, of course, more space in the business salon. But economy class, according to travelers, also provides an acceptable level of comfort that meets the world standards of air transportation that the creators of the Tu-204 strived for. The cabin layout is described by the formula “3 - 3” (tourist) and “2 - 2” in business class with an aisle width of at least 81 cm. Any layout is possible upon individual order.
Comments and complaints
Early modifications suffered from a serious drawback due to the low quality of the insulating layer (which, by the way, was purchased abroad). During the flight, moisture condensed, which then thawed and fell abundantly on the heads of passengers like light rain. Currently, according to reviews, this problem has been completely eliminated.
Despite the fact that the Tu-204 aircraft has all the certificates for international flights, including those regarding noise levels, there were complaints that the air conditioning system was too loud, which would not have been so noticeable if the engines were not so quiet. Other comments regarding convenience, if there were any, were of a subjective nature. The low location of the engine nacelles under the wing makes flying the Tu-204 more comfortable. Passenger seats are located at a higher level, so, according to customers, noise is felt to a lesser extent.
Commercial prospects
Unfortunately, the time when the aircraft fleet of domestic airlines was being formed turned out to be very difficult for the Russian aircraft industry, which was experiencing a crisis caused by the collapse of the USSR. In the nineties to the market air transport Western “second-hand” goods were actively promoted, cheaper and quite profitable to use. Now the situation has changed and improved, but lost opportunities are always more difficult to regain than to win. In all respects, the completed Tupolev Tu-204 (and it continues to improve) is in no way inferior to its Western counterparts. It has economical, low-noise engines, a powerful and durable airframe. "Trekhsotka" can make intercontinental flights. There is reason to believe that Russian and foreign airlines will begin to more actively order Tu-204 aircraft. The interior layout and comfort conditions meet the most stringent international standards, as evidenced by numerous passenger reviews. Currently, 42 machines of this type are in operation.
History of creation
Choice of concept
Tu-204 at the Le Bourget air show (1991)
Development of medium-haul passenger plane Tu-204 began at the Tupolev Design Bureau in . In the process of working on the new aircraft, many different schemes and layouts were considered. At the same time, the design bureau was developing projects for passenger aircraft Tu-164, Tu-174, Tu-184, Tu-194. Further development exploratory research was the development of a concept for the development of mainline aircraft by creating 2-3 basic types with further production on their basis by modifying the entire necessary range. One of these basic aircraft was the Tu-204. The design work was headed by chief designer Leonid Leonidovich Selyakov. Initially it was planned to install 2 NK-8-2U engines on it. The design assumed greater continuity with the serial Tu-134 and Tu-154. Many design solutions were taken from the Tu-134D and Tu-136 projects, the development of which was carried out at that time in the design bureau.
Prospects
The Tu-204 aircraft was unlucky in many ways. It was supposed to become as widespread as its predecessor, the Tu-154. However, with the collapse of the USSR, funding for the aviation industry sharply decreased, the planned economy was replaced by a market economy, and the Tu-204 first lost competition to used Western-made aircraft, and over time it simply became outdated in many respects [ source?] (in particular, the crew of all modifications of the Tu-204 (except for the SM) consists of three people, while on most modern airliners there are two people; hence the additional costs for pilots).
Currently, up to 10 aircraft are produced per year, most of which are for the Rossiya SLO and the Air Force. Due to the inability of the Kazan and Ulyanovsk aircraft factories to establish mass production (making the operation of the aircraft profitable) and a high-quality system after sales service The Tu-204 is not in particular demand among commercial air carriers, although its latest modification, CM, may well be a real competitor to the foreign bestsellers A320 and Boeing 737. At the same time, some airlines (including the very large Transaero and Red Wings) have repeatedly expressed interest in purchasing aircraft from the Tu-204 family. UAC President Mikhail Pogosyan considers the Tu-204 a “turned page” and declares the need to implement more innovative projects.
04/07/2011 in an interview with the ISNA agency, the Head of the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran, Reza Nakhjavani, said that Dmitry Medvedev’s statement that Russian planes have technical shortcomings, became an additional argument in favor of refusing to operate aircraft manufactured by Tupolev Design Bureau in the country’s fleet.
As of the first quarter of 2012, Tupolev OJSC has in its order book for 42 Tu-204SM aircraft (35 optional). Distribution of orders by airline: 15 (10) - Red Wings, 10 (12) - Bashkortostan (VIM-avia), 5 (10) - Aviastar-TU, 6 (-) Aeroflot (Vladivostok Avia"), 3 (3) - "Cosmos" (RSC Energia), 3 (-) "Mirninskoye AP" (OJSC "Alrosa").
Design
Aircraft of the Tu-204/214 family are cantilever monoplanes of a normal design with a low-swept wing and two turbojet engines mounted on pylons under the wing. The high aspect ratio wing is formed by supercritical profiles, has a negative aerodynamic twist, a positive transverse V angle (4°) and is installed at an angle of 3° 15’ to the fuselage horizontal plane. Specially profiled vertical aerodynamic surfaces are installed at the ends of the wing to reduce induced drag.
Air conditioning system
The air conditioning system (ACS) consists of:
- air extraction and pre-cooling systems;
- two autonomous lines with independent air cooling units (ACU);
- air recirculation systems;
- temperature regulation, control and monitoring systems.
Air into the air conditioning system is taken from engine compressors or APU. It is possible to connect a ground air conditioner.
The air bleed system provides air supply for pressurization, cooling or heating of the pressurized cabin, heating of the APU, emergency pressurization of hydraulic tanks, as well as air supply to the engine air start starter.
Regulation of air temperature in the cockpit and passenger cabins is carried out automatically in accordance with the setting of the temperature controllers.
Control system
The digital complex of flight and navigation equipment includes:
- aircraft navigation computer system
- inertial airborne laser navigation system
- means for measuring altitude-speed parameters and angles of attack
- air signal system
- radio navigation and landing systems
- critical mode warning system (CRS)
- ground proximity warning system (GPR)
- weather radar station.
All flight parameters, navigation and meteorological conditions are displayed on the screens of the electronic display system. Information on the screens can be displayed in both metric and imperial units.
Reserve flight instruments - speed indicator, variometer, barometric altimeter, attitude indicator, radiomagnetic indicator, magnetic compass.
Automatic control of the aircraft is carried out by a computer flight control system (VSUP) and a computer thrust control system (VSUT).
The VSUP generates automatic aircraft control signals and command indexes of electronic indicators for director control, as well as other information into related systems. The VSUT generates signals to control thrust and move the engine control levers depending on the configuration of the aircraft and the flight parameters specified by the crew or the VSUT.
On-board systems are interfaced with each other using the widely used ARINC 429 interface, which simplifies equipment modernization, including through the use of foreign-made components.
Fuel system
The fuel on the aircraft is placed in caisson tanks formed by the sealed power structure of the aircraft airframe.
Tank location:
- 2 tanks of 7000 kg each in the root of the wing (left and right);
- consumable compartments of 1800 kg each (left and right);
- 2 tanks of 3375 kg each in the cantilever part of the wing (left and right);
- tank with a capacity of 2360 kg in the keel caisson;
- tank with a capacity of 8800 kg in the center section.
The total fuel mass is 35710 kg. On some special modifications of Tu-204/214 aircraft, additional fuel tanks are installed in the fuselage.
To reduce drag in cruising flight mode, fuel is automatically pumped after takeoff into the tail tank located in the fin of the aircraft. This allows the aircraft's center of mass to be shifted by 10% of the average aerodynamic chord, thereby reducing losses due to balancing drag.
Hydraulic system
The hydraulic system is designed as three independent subsystems.
The main sources of hydraulic power in hydraulic systems are variable displacement pumps driven by aircraft engines.
Backup sources of hydraulic power are electric pumping stations - one in each hydraulic system.
The emergency source of hydraulic power is a turbopump unit, which is released into the air flow automatically when two engines fail and after two generators are turned off, as well as manually.
Working fluid – NGZh-5U, Skydrol LD-4 or Skydrol 500 B4. Working pressure in the hydraulic system is 210 kgf/cm2.
Anti-icing system (AIS)
The toes of engine air intakes, fan fairings, cockpit windshields, total pressure receivers, and aerodynamic angle sensors are protected from icing.
The wing and tail are not very susceptible to ice growth and are not equipped with an anti-icing system. During the tests, the safety of flights without an anti-icing system on the load-bearing surfaces was confirmed.
Supplier cooperation
| Developer | Manufacturer | Supplied components |
|---|---|---|
| JSC Aviadvigatel | OJSC "Perm Motor Plant" | PS-90A engines |
| Rolls-Royce | Rolls-Royce | engines RB211-535E4 |
| JSC NPP Aerosila | JSC NPP Aerosila | auxiliary power unit TA-12-60 |
| JSC "Techpribor" | JSC "Techpribor" | fuel measurement and alignment complex KTC-2-1, on-board engine control system BSKD-90M |
| OJSC OKB "Kristall" | emergency turbopump unit, fuel system pumps | |
| JSC "Abris" | JSC "Abris" | engine control and diagnostic unit GEMU-122-5, backup engine parameters indicator |
| JSC "Aviaagregat" | chassis | |
| AK "Rubin" | brake discs, wheels | |
| OJSC "Yaroslavl Tire Plant" | tires | |
| Michelin | tires | |
| JSC "Gidroagregat" | remote control system, steering units | |
| OJSC MMZ "Znamya" | steering gears | |
| OJSC MMZ "Rassvet" | steering gears | |
| JSC NPO Rodina | JSC NPO Rodina | steering gears |
| OJSC "Ufa Instrument-Making Production Association" | systems VSUP-85-3, VSUT-85-3, ASSHU-204M | |
| aircraft navigation computer system VSS-95, integrated radio control panel KPRTS-95M-1 | ||
| OJSC "Ulyanovsk Instrument Design Bureau" | integrated information display system KISS-1-9A, liquid crystal indicators IM-8, critical mode warning system SPKR | |
| OJSC "Cheboksary Research and Production Instrument-Making Enterprise "ELARA" | SEI-85 electronic display system units, ASSHU-204M system sensors | |
| JSC DNII "Volna" | JSC DNII "Volna" | entertainment and passenger service system, video surveillance equipment |
| JSC "LAZEX" | JSC "LAZEX" | integrated laser-satellite navigation system NSI-2000MT |
| Honeywell | Honeywell | inertial navigation system HG2030AE21 |
| OJSC "Kyiv plant "Radar" | weather navigation radar station MNRLS-85 | |
| Honeywell | Honeywell | weather radar station RDR-4B |
| JSC "VNIIRA-Navigator" | JSC "VNIIRA-Navigator" | Ground Proximity Early Warning System (PRWW), radio navigation equipment |
| Honeywell | Honeywell | ground proximity early warning system EGPWS |
| CJSC "Experimental Plant NIIHIT" | rechargeable batteries | |
| VARTA | rechargeable batteries | |
| JSC "Electric machine-building plant "LEPSE" | electrical system components, windshield wiper drives | |
| JSC Aeroelectromash | JSC Aeroelectromash | electrical system components |
| OJSC Sarapul Electric Generator Plant | generators, rectifiers, electrical system control units | |
| JSC "Design Bureau of Electrical Products of the 21st Century" | external lighting equipment, switching equipment | |
| JSC "Electroavtomat" | switching equipment | |
| OJSC "Ural Electrical Connectors Plant" | electrical connectors | |
| CJSC Scientific and Production Center "Research Institute of Microdevices" | LED lightening | |
| JSC NPO "Nauka" | JSC NPO "Nauka" | air conditioning system, automatic pressure control system |
| OJSC NPP Respirator | OJSC NPP Respirator | oxygen equipment |
| OJSC "Ufa Plant of Elastomeric Materials, Products and Structures" | ||
| Air Cruisers | Air Cruisers | rescue equipment |
| JSC "Tactical Missile Armament Corporation" | water-vacuum waste removal system (UV-1 toilet) | |
| JSC "Agregat" | passenger seats | |
| LLC "Firm AKKO" | LLC "Firm AKKO" | passenger seats |
Flight performance
Scheme of Tu-204
| Characteristic | Tu-204-100 | Tu-204S | Tu-204-120 | Tu-214 | Tu-204-300 | Tu-204SM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First flight | January 2, 1989 | March 23, 2000 | October 1998 | March 21, 1996 | August 18, 2003 | December 29, 2010 |
| Start of operation | 1995 | 2003 | 1998 | 2001 | 2005 | 2012 |
| Wingspan | 41.83 m | |||||
| Length | 46.13 m | 40 m | 46.13 m | |||
| Height at tail | 13.88 m | |||||
| Wing area | 184.17 m² | 21,000 kg | 30,000 kg | 21,000 kg | 25,200 kg | 18,000 kg | 23,000 kg |
| Max. refueling | 32,800 kg | 35,700 kg | 35,700 kg | |||
| Max. take-off weight | 103,000 kg | 103,000 kg | 103,000 kg | 110,750 kg | 107,500 kg | 108,000 kg |
| Max. landing weight | 88,000 kg | 91,500 kg | 88,000 kg | 93,000 kg | 88,000 kg | 89,500 kg |
| Max. passenger capacity | 210 | - | 210 | 210 | 164 | 215 |
| Crew | 3 | 2 | ||||
| Cruising speed | 830-850 km/h | |||||
| Maximum speed | 850 km/h | |||||
| Service ceiling | 12 100 m | |||||
| Max. range of flight | 6,500 km | 6,500 km | 6,500 km | 6,670 km | 7,500 km | |
| Range of flight |
4,300 km | 4,100 km | 4,100 km | 4,340 km | 5,800 km | 4800 km |
| Engines | 2 × PS-90A | 2 × PS-90A | 2 × RB211 | 2 × PS-90A | 2 × PS-90A | 2 × PS-90A2 |
| Average fuel consumption (at max. commercial load) |
3200 kg/hour | |||||
| Required runway length | 2,500 m | 1800 m | ||||
Operators
Countries where the Tu-204 is used.
Since the start of serial production (1990), 73 Tu-204 aircraft of various modifications have been manufactured. As of August 2012, 46 aircraft of the Tu-204 family were in operation.
| Operator | Modification | In use | Ordered | Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JSC Tupolev | 2 × 204CM 1×204 1×204-300 2×204C |
2 (4 in storage) | ||
| Aviastar-SP | 204 | 0 (2 stored) | ||
| Aviastar-TU | 204С | 2 | 5 (204CM) | 10 (204CM) |
| Russian Air Force | 0 | 4 (2 × 214ОН, 2 × 214Р) | ||
| Vladivostok Air | 204-300 | 6 | 6 (204CM) | |
| Vnukovo Airlines | 204 | 0 (1 stored) | ||
| Dalavia | 214 | 0 (4 stored) | ||
| Kavminvodyavia | 204-100 | 0 (2 stored) | ||
| KAPO named after S.P. Gorbunova | 214 | 0 (1 stored) | ||
| KLII - China Flight Research Institute | Tu-204-120SE | 1 | ||
| Special flight squad "Russia" | 3×214 2 × 214CP 2 × 214PU 2 × 214SUS 2 × Tu-204-300 |
11 | 3 (214SR) | |
| Transaero | 214 | 3 | 2 (204-100С) | |
| Air China Cargo | 0 | 2 (204-120CE) | ||
| Air Koryo | 2 × 204-300 1×204-100 |
3 | ||
| China Eastern Cargo | 0 | 2 (204-120CE) | ||
| Cairo Aviation | 2 × 204-120 1×204-120C |
3 (2 in storage) | ||
| Cubana | 2 × 204-100E 2 × 204CE |
4 | 0 | 2 (204-300) |
| DHL | 204C | 1 | ||
| Red Wings | 4 × 204-100 5 × 204-100V |
9 | 15 (204CM) | 10 (204CM) |
| Business Aero | 204-300A | 1 | ||
The Tu-204 aircraft was developed in the 1980-1990s to replace its predecessor Tu-154, which was a breakthrough in Soviet and Russian aviation shipbuilding. The line of models of this vessel has 50 different variations, which are designed for passenger, cargo, special and VIP transportation. Each a new version The aircraft used developments and successful design solutions of existing modifications, combining various variants of the aircraft with the ultimate purpose of its use.
- Tu-204 100 - 10 tons more take-off weight.
- Tu-204 200 - more fuel tanks, which increases the flight distance.
- Tu-204 100E - the cabin is equipped with English-language equipment, improved engines.
- Tu-204 100V - further improvements to the technical equipment of the previous model.
- Tu-204 100V-04 - this modification takes into account international noise level requirements.
- Tu-204 120 - this model featured foreign avionics and new engines from England. The model was sold to Egypt in the amount of five units.
- Tu-204 300 - in this variation the fuselage is shortened, which reduces the number of passengers. Flight distance increased. The model meets all international standards.
- Tu-204 300A - the model was specially designed for administrative flights in order to increase the flight distance.
- Tu-214 is a successful modification of the aircraft with a higher take-off and payload weight.
- Tu-204SM is the most successful variation of the original model. It has been completely revised specifications using previous successful modifications. This model can compete with Western manufacturing titans such as Boeing.
In addition to passenger models, there are cargo versions of the Tu-204, as well as planned versions of the aircraft, the release of which is expected in the coming years.
Stages of creating Tu-204 aircraft
The idea of creating a new model passenger aircraft originated in the USSR in the 1970s.
Initially, its design and technical equipment were supposed to be similar to the Tu-134 and 136 aircraft. However, over time, emerging nuances made it similar to its foreign counterparts.
Model of the original three-engine version of the Tu-204
Disputes arose over the number of engines. The original two engines were planned to be replaced by three, but in the 1980s it was finally decided to add two engines to the design and mount them on the wing pylons, which was a qualitatively new solution for Soviet aircraft construction.
In 1987, preparations for production of the Tu-204 were in full swing.
A year later, a test copy of the aircraft was produced. A year later, the first flight of the Tu-204 was made. By the end of 1993, all tests of the suitability of the model were successfully completed. In 1995, the Tu-204 aircraft received all the necessary certificates for its admission to air transportation. Since 1990, serial production of machines of this modification began.
General characteristics of Tu-204
The characteristics of the Tu-204 reflect its modernity and reliability.
Aircraft in this category meet international standards for noise, air pollution and safety.
In this regard, Tu-204 models freely fly on flights to the European Union, Asian and American countries.
The Tu-204 aircraft, the photo of which can be compared with its images of its predecessors, differs from them in the location of the engines and the massiveness of the structure. Its strength is its ability to fly and land with both engines out of order. The aircraft's design uses lightweight and durable composite materials and aluminum alloys
, and the shape of the wings and a capacious gas tank located in the tail of the vessel significantly improve its maneuverability.
For the first time in Russia, the Tu-204 has a remote control system that allows landing in low visibility conditions, which reduces the risk of accidents.
The Tu-204 cockpit is equipped with the latest technology to minimize the pressure on the aircraft's pilots.
The instrument panel has 6 screens, with the help of which pilots fully monitor the status of the entire aircraft with the support of satellite communications.
Crew cabin
The wings and landing gear of the Tu-204 are made using a special technology that simplifies the flight and landing of the aircraft. The aircraft is equipped with a modern air supply system inside the cabin, produced directly from the ship's compressors. The air temperature is automatically maintained at a given level.
The likelihood of an emergency due to icing of engines and their components, as well as the cockpit windshield, is eliminated due to a number of technical improvements.
This fact has been confirmed by a number of tests, including those under the auspices of international expert commissions.
Demand for Tu-204 aircraft
The design of a qualitatively new model of aircraft to replace the Tu-154 lasted more than one decade.
Leading Soviet, and then Russian and foreign experts in the field of aircraft design were involved in the development. The result exceeded all expectations: the resulting model meets all international standards, has an advantageous design and is economical.
The expected demand for the Tu-204 was accordingly high, and high hopes were placed on the model. It was assumed that this aircraft would completely displace its outdated predecessors and mark the beginning of a qualitatively new level of civil aviation. However, the aircraft of this model did not live up to the expectations placed on them.
First of all, this was hampered by the high cost of the Tu-204 aircraft. It is more than twice as expensive as the Tu-154.
During the years of production, which occurred in the 90s, there was simply no need and opportunity to purchase large quantities of this model.
The number of flights was rapidly declining, and financial problems prevented the purchase of new aircraft models. There is reason to believe that the unsuccessful release period of this model subsequently slowed down its popularization and demand in the market. To date, the number of Tu-204 units produced is 40 units. Some of them were sold abroad. In modern
Russian aviation
Oddly enough, airlines prefer to purchase non-new Boeings to update and replenish their aircraft fleet. Therefore, numerous laudatory reviews of the Tu-204 aircraft did not help it take a leading position in the market. Red Wings Airlines has the largest number of Tu-204 aircraft.
There are six units of this model in its aircraft fleet. This is what makes production profitable, but there are few orders for the Tu-204. Some companies planning to purchase these machines subsequently went bankrupt. However, the state is committed to supporting the production of this model. Thus, two units of equipment were ordered by Russian Post.
The advantage of the Tu-204 is that it has a crew of only 2 people, which increases its economic efficiency.
Location of seats on the Tu-204 aircraft
The photo of the Tu-204 interior reflects its convenience and sufficient space for a comfortable flight.
However, it is not enough to select suitable locations. A diagram of the Tu-204 aircraft cabin will help travelers with this.
The interior layout of the Tu-204 Red Wings is characterized by the presence of only one type of class - economy.
In total, the board can accommodate 220 passengers. However, seats in different parts of the plane vary in terms of comfort and space. Conventionally, all zones can be divided into several types.
Convenient places
Seats in the first row are traditionally considered good, due to the absence of other passengers in front.
But at the same time, the space between the seats and the partition is limited, which will make flying difficult for tall people.
Rows 9 and 28 have the advantage of only two seats, which will please passengers flying in pairs. There's plenty of room in the front to stretch your legs. However, there are serious restrictions on placement in these seats: due to the close proximity to the emergency exit, pregnant women, elderly people, disabled people and passengers with children will not be seated there. This rule is dictated by safety precautions, since in the event of an emergency there should be adults and healthy people near the emergency exit. Therefore, if you do not meet one of the above points, you will be transferred.
Seats 10A, F and 29 A, F are located next to 9 and 28 on the edges. There are no seats in front of them, so there is more than enough legroom. These seats have no restrictions, so experienced passengers sell them out the fastest.
Places with certain inconveniences
In rows number 8 and 27, it is not possible to change the position of the seat back due to the emergency exit being located behind.
This can create some discomfort for those who cannot sit in one position for a long time and people suffering from back pain.
In row 35, seats C and D are located on the edges of the aisle. Possible inconvenience is created by the proximity of the toilets, due to which a large number of people constantly pass by the passengers of these places, which can touch those sitting.
Bad places
The most uncomfortable seats in the cabin are located at the rear of the plane.
The seats in these seats do not change the position of the backs, and the close proximity of the toilets not only carries the risk of an unpleasant odor, but also increases the concentration of passengers nearby, which is why the noise in these seats interferes with a quiet flight.
Regular places
The remaining places have a standard set of characteristics.
Here, as in the above points, a lot depends, including on the neighbors in the row. On any seat You can make a comfortable flight and vice versa.
In addition to the categories of seats presented above, seats can be divided into categories, the choice of which is determined by the individual needs of each person.
Thus, a seat by the window will brighten up the flight for those who like to look out the window and enjoy the view of the clouds, but it can become unbearable for people with aerophobia. Also, if you need to frequently go to the restroom, such places will create discomfort both for the passenger himself and for his neighbor. The light from the portholes will disturb the sleep of those who sleep in the dark.
Aisle seats are convenient for those who want to often get up and move around the cabin without disturbing the person sitting next to them. When boarding from the aisle, you can get to the exit faster. The advantage of these places also lies in the absence of a neighbor on one side.
However, passengers and flight attendants passing by may inadvertently touch those sitting in the aisle and disturb them. It is convenient to sit in the middle for those who do not want to see the porthole and sit right next to the aisle.
The disadvantages would be having passengers on both sides and having to stand up to allow those sitting by the window to exit.
Choosing the right seat on a Tu-204 plane
To ensure that the flight brings minimal inconvenience, you should take care in advance about your preferences in choosing a seat. The aircraft diagram can be visually viewed on the airline's website.
Taking into account the above recommendations, the advantages and disadvantages of each seating area of the cabin, you can choose the seat you need from those available.
This is convenient to do during online check-in or directly at the airport at flight check-in. Airport employees are required to provide free information about the location of seats in the cabin and inform about the availability of unoccupied seats.
If for some reason the seat does not suit you, you can ask the aircraft staff for a transfer, subject to availability of seats. Pay attention to the location of your window seat relative to the cardinal directions. So you won't be blinded and you can comfortably watch the flight from the porthole window.
In contact with
Tu-204SM- a deep modernization of the aircraft, which has a number of significant advantages over the basic model and is capable of competing with modern competitor airliners.
History of Tu-204SM
The prototype aircraft (factory No. 64150) first took off on December 29, 2010 in Ulyanovsk at the Ulyanovsk Vostochny airport. The aircraft was commanded by test pilot Viktor Minashkin.
IN this moment The Government of the Russian Federation and the United Aircraft Corporation are analyzing the prospects for the production and operation of airliners in government services, as well as airlines, before the commissioning of a new generation airliner.
The Aviastar-SP manufacturing plant is implementing an initiative program to introduce a dozen Tu-204-100/300 to the market. We are talking about aircraft with a luxury cabin for corporate and business aviation. Over the next two years, a batch of Tu-204 aircraft with luxury interiors will be produced. In accordance with the UAC report for 2015, in terms of aircraft production, it is planned to consider the possibility of subsidizing part of the cost of the aircraft.
Design of Tu-204SM
Compared to the design of the basic aircraft of the Tu-204/214 family, the following main changes have been made on the new aircraft:
- modernized PS-90A2 turbofan engines with a reduced life cycle cost and increased overhaul and designated life of the main parts and assemblies (for the cold part - up to 20,000 cycles and for the hot part - 10,000 cycles);
- new APU TA-18-200M with increased launch and operation altitude; new equipment is being introduced that performs functions in accordance with modern and future requirements of ICAO and Eurocontrol;
- a modernized landing gear, the design of which provides a service life corresponding to the service life of an aircraft airframe;
- the interior of the passenger compartment is improved;
- a general aircraft equipment control system (CAE) and a maintenance and diagnostic system are being developed and installed;
- cockpit, providing control of the aircraft by 2 pilots;
- modified power supply, control systems, fuel and hydraulic systems, a new air conditioning system, a digital SCV system and electric drives are being introduced in the wing mechanization system.
Tu-204SM video: Demonstration flight of the aircraft at the MAKS 2013 air show
Key indicators of Tu-204SM
- Crew composition: 2 people.
- Range at maximum load: 3500 km.
- Aerodrome class: B.
- Runway length (mileage): 1800 m.
- Landing category: IIIA.
- Local noise: meets the requirements of Chapter 4 of ICAO Annex 16.
- Design life: 60,000 hours, 30,000 flights 25 calendar years.
- MTBF: at least 12,000 hours, 6,000 flights with 300-350 flight hours. hour. per month.
Tu-204SM interior diagram
