Ilyushin’s long range IL-96-300 has always had a hard life. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russian airlines rather took cheap and old western aircraft. The once as new flagship designed airliner in the end only flew a few years for Domodedovo Airlines and Kras Air in larger numbers and only at Aeroflot actually took over the role as leading aircraft type. Today, only Cubana operates this airliner, all the others are gone. And it was the last summer of Ilyushin IL-96 ops with Aeroflot, when this wonderful piece of Russian engineering made its way to Sochi.
The IL-96 is a way better aircraft than one would expect from flying on older Tupolevs and Ilyushins. The cabin with Aeroflot was modern but lacked an inflight entertainment system. But hey, Russians like to read anyway. During start- up and in flight the airliner showed qualities unsought of. The fly by wire not only allowed a stable and smooth flight through turbulence, like on the A380, but the cabin was extremely silent and comfortable. With only nine abreast seats installed, Ilyushin’s widebody offers more space than a typical ten abreast B777.
The huge lower deck galley was used for preparing a great meal, and for a three hour flight, lot’s of non alcoholic drinks were served. Besides the high degree of service aboard Aeroflot, the classic Ilyushin “goodies” are fun to play with, for example the individual fans for every seat, or the LED lights.
Generally speaking it’s a shame these airliners sold so bad and are gone already, since they are at least as good if not better than comparable Airbus or Boeing airliners. Unfortunately it’s PS-90 engines burn a bit more fuel per passenger than a B767, and since nowadays each and every gram of fuel saved counts, the destiny of this great airliner was clear…
But never the less it was a great flying experience and something nobody should have missed!