Maksim covers aerospace developments in Central Asia for Aviation Week. He has worked for Russia's Air Transport Observer magazine and was in charge of several ATO sister aerospace publications after working for the Moscow-based CAST defense think tank.
Maksim has a degree in international relations from MGIMO University, Moscow.
Russia’s largest air carrier, Aeroflot, has started commercial operations with its first Sukhoi Superjet 100 regional jet. The airline received its first SSJ 100 through VEB Leasing company on June 9, clearing the way for the first revenue flight June 16 from Moscow to St. Petersburg carrying a government delegation headed by Russia’s vice premier, Sergey Ivanov, who arrived at the international economic forum held in this city.
Development of the new Ka-60/-62 medium twin-engine helicopter—Kamov's first non-coaxial aircraft—is gaining pace, backed by military orders and government subsidies. Russian Helicopters, the holding company for the country's rotorcraft industry and Kamov's parent, is simultaneously preparing both the Ka-60 military transport and Ka-62 civil version; the latter has a maximum takeoff weight of 6,500 kg (14,300 lb.) and can carry 12-15 passengers at 290 kph (180 mph) over a range of 750 km (465 mi.).
MOSCOW — Development of the improved Mil Mi-34C1 light helicopter has received a significant boost with Russia’s largest rotorcraft operator, UTair, placing a launch order for 10 units during the HeliRussia 2011 exhibition in Moscow last week. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2012; the contract value was not disclosed.
