The PD-8 engine bird-impact test has been successfully conducted at the UEC-Saturn facility in Rybinsk, Russia, marking a significant step forward in the engine’s certification process for commercial use. FlightGlobal aviation news reports that the test was carried out as part of a broader series of mandatory certification trials.
According to FlightGlobal journalist David Kaminski-Morrow, the Aviadvigatel PD-8 turbofan engine, intended for the Yakovlev SJ-100 regional aircraft, “confirmed its stable operation” during simulated bird-strike conditions, a critical safety assessment.
The bird-impact test simulates real-world collision scenarios between airborne birds and jet engines, which is a required demonstration under international aviation safety standards. Successful completion of this test helps bring the PD-8 closer to type certification and potential commercial service.
About the PD-8 Engine and Its Role in the SJ-100 Program
The PD-8 engine is being developed by United Engine Corporation (UEC) to replace the older PowerJet SaM146 engine on the SJ-100, a regional jet aircraft that has been undergoing a series of import-substitution redesigns.
This domestically built engine is part of broader efforts within the Russian aerospace industry to reduce reliance on foreign-sourced propulsion systems. Such strategic systems localization also drives the need to meet rigorous global certification standards, ensuring safety and performance equivalency.
What the Bird-Impact Test Involves
During the test, bird simulators were fired at the operating engine from a multi-barreled launcher placed several metres ahead of the inlet, replicating conditions the engine might experience during takeoff or climb.
Key technical details included:
- Bird simulators fired rapidly to mimic an encounter with a flock.
- Tests were conducted at maximum thrust settings, representative of takeoff power.
- Fan blades and aerodynamic fairings were evaluated for impact resistance.
According to United Engine’s statements included in the FlightGlobal report, the engine sustained no critical damage and remained controllable after impact, fulfilling this phase of safety verification.
Why Bird-Impact Testing Matters for Aircraft Engine Safety
Bird strikes are a well-known hazard in commercial aviation. Engine certification requirements under frameworks such as ICAO Annex 8 include rigorous bird strike tests to ensure engines can withstand one or more bird ingestions without catastrophic failure.
Recent Testing Milestones for the PD-8
The bird-impact test follows a sequence of other key performance and hazard tests reported in recent months:
- Blade-off containment tests, where a fan blade is intentionally fractured to assess containment capability, were completed successfully.
- Water-ingestion and rain performance tests have been conducted to assure reliability in adverse weather conditions.
- Thrust reverser and other systems tests for operational readiness have also been documented.
This series of trials suggests a holistic certification campaign rather than a single isolated milestone.
Certification Timeline Outlook
According to regulatory projections, the PD-8 engine certification process could be finalized in early 2026, following completion of remaining tests and formal evaluation by Russian aviation authorities.
Once certified, the engine is expected to enter serial production and be integrated into the SJ-100 fleet, supporting deliveries scheduled as domestic aircraft production ramps up.
Industry Context & Commercial Relevance
The SJ-100 with PD-8 powerplants represents a strategic push for domestically sourced aircraft propulsion in a global market dominated by Western engine manufacturers. Achieving certification is a necessary step for airlines, regulators, and insurers to accept the PD-8 as a viable engine for commercial regional operations.
These developments also reflect broader trends in aerospace supply chains and technology self-reliance, which remain focal points for industry analysts.
What’s Next
With the PD-8 engine bird-impact test now successfully concluded, focus will shift to:
- Final certification reviews by aviation authorities
- Continued durability and flight tests
- Beginning serial production for fleet integration
These steps will determine whether the PD-8 can transition from development to regular service, influencing regional aviation capability and engine technology autonomy.
Sources
- FlightGlobal – “PD-8 engine passes bird-impact testing at Saturn facility”, David Kaminski-Morrow (23 Jan 2026)
- RUAvia.su – “UEC announces readiness to begin serial production of PD-8 engines” (Engine production forecast & test series)
- Rosaviatsiya type certificate timeline – PD-8 engine certification expected Q1 2026
- SJ-100 broader context – Wikipedia article on Yakovlev SJ-100
