Russian Aerospace | Ilyushin 92 | Russian Presidents Aircraft | Pin For Sale

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Russian Aerospace | Ilyushin 92 | Russian Presidents Aircraft | Pin:
$25.47

The Ilyushin Il-96 was designed in the mid-80s and first flew in 1988. Russia uses four Il-96-300PU for presidential transport, operated by Rossiya Airlines. Prior to Putin, Boris Yeltsin also flew on the Il-96, and altogether five different aircraft have performed this duty over the years, although just four are operational at present.
Reports suggest that at least two are deployed on every presidential trip – one carrying the president, and the other acting as a decoy (as well as transporting some of Putin’s entourage). Rumor has it that when he’s ready to travel, all four jets are fueled up and prepared to leave, at which point Putin selects one at random on which to travel.
As you’d expect, the jet has been heavily modified to allow the president to work, communicate and stay protected while onboard. Specifics are kept tightly under wraps, but reports suggest there are air defense systems and even some sort of escape pod onboard.