Sukhoi’s Superjet 100 (SSJ100) has begun a series of high-altitude tests at an Armenian airport.

The SSJ100 is part of the Russian regional jet family with a maximum cruising speed of over Mach 0.76, and is powered by the SaM146 engine.

The tests will assess SSJ100’s take-off and landing performance and climb rate characteristics to verify its capability to sustain safe take-off and landing including missed approach in complicated natural conditions.

The test will also evaluate the performance of main aircraft systems performance with focus on engine and auxiliary power unit operation.

Armenia’s Shirak Airport has been facilitating the high-altitude tests due to its altitude of 5,000ft.