About This File
Originally developed for Volga-Dnepr Airlines, the IL-76TD airframe was modified to accommodate the PS-90A-76 engines previously used on the IL-76MF stretched aircraft. The new engines were 25% more fuel-efficient than the D-30KP-2's that they replaced, and provided a lower noise footprint, allowing the aircraft to fly to more airports, including in noise-sensitive areas.
Silk Way initially expressed interest in three such airframes; however, the order was later reduced to two. The two planes eventually made their way to the airline, which is still flying them to this day.
Worthy of note is the fact that 4K-AZ101 had its leading edge slats painted white for the first decade of its life.
In 2015, TAPOiCh modified a 1993-built IL-76TD to IL-76TD-90 standard, making it the second IL-76 aircraft to be re-engined mid-life (the first was an IL-76MD converted to an IL-76MD-90). "Monte Bata", as it's called, first flew for Shar Ink, on behalf of Ceiba Cargo. Sigma Airlines (now defunct), Rubystar, and the Equatoguinean government followed suit; the latter being the current operator.
As of 2024, every single IL-76TD-90 aircraft is active.
Liveries included:
- TAPOiCh
- Volga-Dnepr
- Silk Way Airlines (OC & NC)
- Monte Bata (Ceiba, Sigma, Rubystar, Eq. Guinea Gov't.)
- Biosyn (Jurassic World)
- White
