Volga-Dnepr Group's second new-build IL-76TD-90VD freighter has started undergoing tests at the Chkalov TAPO production plant in Russia before joining the airline's fleet.

Volga-Dnepr took delivery of the first ever IL-76TD-90VD in June 2006. The aircraft has since restarted services to Europe, North America, Australia and Japan. These places were off limits to older versions of the IL-76 in 2000 due to noise level restrictions, a company statement said.

Volga-Dnepr's second aircraft has been financed by Sberbank through a seven-year line of credit for RUB450 million (US$17.7 million) to Volga-Dnepr Leasing.

The Group commenced its programme to modernize the Ilyushin IL-76TD freighter in 2002 and, two years later, Volga-Dnepr Leasing was established to lead the project.

"The IL-76TD-90VD is an important aircraft in Volga-Dnepr's fleet and its unique operating capabilities make it an extremely popular aircraft with our customers all over the world. In 2006, the new aircraft generated the third highest contribution to the Group's revenue and profitability and its performance exceeded all expectations," said Volga-Dnepr Leasing technical director Andrew Pakhomov.

The modernized aircraft is equipped with PS-90A-76 engines and the Kupol-III-76MVD aircraft navigation system. The IL-76TD-90VD has a higher cargo payload of 50 tons and an extended maximum flight range. As well as reducing the frequency of maintenance checks, the new aircraft also slashes the number of flight crew required.

The new Ilyushin IL-76TD-90VD aircraft is said to be the most fuel efficient ramp aircraft for cargo in the 20 to 50-ton range. The cost of transporting one ton of freight using the IL-76TD-90VD is around half the cost of moving cargo on a Hercules freighter, the only equivalent western aircraft, it said.