Russian aerospace firm United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) agreed to supply six Il-114-300 regional turboprop aircraft to India’s Flamingo Aerospace Private Limited during the Wings India 2026 air show in Hyderabad.
The preliminary agreement specifies deliveries to begin in 2028, as United Aircraft aims to support India’s burgeoning regional connectivity market through phased supply and capability development partnerships.
Deal Overview & Timeline
Key elements of the agreement include:
- Signing event: Wings India 2026, Hyderabad, India.
- Aircraft: Six Il-114-300 regional turboprops.
- Delivery window: Initial handovers targeted starting in 2028.
- Partnership scope: UAC to help develop aviation competencies including assembly, modification, and MRO capabilities.
The Il-114-300, a modernised variant of a Soviet-designed regional aircraft with up to ~68 seats, is designed for short- to medium-haul operations from smaller airfields — aligning with India’s regional connectivity focus.
Background: United Aircraft & the Il-114-300
United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is Russia’s largest aerospace conglomerate, encompassing historic brands such as Ilyushin and Tupolev, and responsible for civil and military aircraft production.
The Il-114-300 is the upgraded iteration of the older Il-114 regional turboprop. It first flew in prototype form in 2020 and is positioned as a regional connectivity aircraft with modern avionics, improved engines, and flexibility for operations from smaller, less-equipped airports.
Strategic Implications for Indian Aviation
Supporting India’s Regional Connectivity:
- India’s UDAN scheme aims to boost flights to underserved airports nationwide. Industry analysts and independent outlets highlight the potential role of rugged regional turboprops like the Il-114-300 in such markets.
Potential Technology Transfer and Localisation:
- The deal includes provisions for UAC support in expanding Flamingo’s aviation capabilities including assembly and MRO, potentially aligning with broader national industrial goals such as “Make in India”.
Certification, Regulation & Market Factors:
- The preliminary nature of the agreement means final regulatory approvals and certification in Indian jurisdictions (DGCA, etc.) will determine full execution.
Market Context & Industry Insight
Regional turboprop aircraft remain vital for connecting smaller urban centres and tier-II/III cities where jet operations are uneconomic. While competitors in this space include ATR and Bombardier turboprops, the Il-114-300 offers Russia-made alternatives suited to rugged field conditions.
Outlook & What’s Next
- Delivery progression: Monitoring first aircraft deliveries from 2028 and regulatory clearances.
- Certification: Indian aviation authority approvals will shape operational timelines.
- Further cooperation: Opportunities to expand beyond six aircraft and broader aerospace partnerships.
Sources
- The Times of India:- Russian firm inks MoU with Hyderabad-based aerospace company for six aircraft
- The Machine Maker :- Flamingo Aerospace and UAC sign deal for six Il-114-300 regional aircraft at Wings India 2026
- Indian Defence News:- Indo-Russian aviation pact: Flamingo Aerospace to acquire Il-114-300 aircraft
- United Aircraft Corporation (Official Site):- Il-114-300 Regional Aircraft
- Wikipedia :-United Aircraft Corporation
