MC-21: The Plane of the 21st Century
- Designed from scratch with perfect aerodynamics for improved fuel efficiency (24% compared to current generation of aircraft)
- Wider than competitors, with more comfortable seating and enlarged luggage racks
- State-of-the-art climate control, lighting, and anti-aerophobia interior design
- Composite materials make up 40% of the aircraft, including the world’s first almost completely composite wing
- Advanced computer-aided design and production methods, including 3D digital modeling and fluorescent control
- Two engine options: Russian PD-14 and American PW 1400G
- Avionics units and instruments can be upgraded during the entire lifetime of the liner
- First flight expected soon, with 175 orders already placed by Russian Aviation and leasing companies
| Term | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Aerodynamics | The study of the interaction between air and solid objects, such as aircraft, and the principles used to design them for efficient flight. | The new MC-21 plane has been designed with perfect aerodynamics for improved fuel efficiency, reducing emissions and operating costs. |
| Composite materials | Mixed materials composed of two or more different substances, often used in construction for their strength, lightweight properties, and resistance to corrosion. | The MC-21’s composite materials make up 40% of the aircraft, including the world’s first almost completely composite wing, reducing weight and increasing durability. |
| Computer-aided design (CAD) | The use of computer software to create and modify designs, models, and prototypes, often used in engineering and architecture. | The MC-21’s advanced design and production methods include 3D digital modeling and fluorescent control, allowing for precise and efficient manufacturing. |
| Avionics | The electronic systems used in aircraft, including navigation, communication, and control systems. | The MC-21’s avionics units and instruments can be upgraded during the entire lifetime of the liner, ensuring the aircraft remains state-of-the-art and efficient. |
| Flight efficiency | The ability of an aircraft to travel a given distance while using the least amount of fuel, often measured in terms of fuel consumption per unit of distance. | The MC-21 has been designed to improve fuel efficiency by 24% compared to current generation aircraft, reducing emissions and operating costs. |
| Wing | The fixed or movable part of an aircraft that provides lift and stability during flight. | The MC-21’s almost completely composite wing is a major innovation, providing improved strength, durability, and fuel efficiency. |
| Climate control | The systems used to regulate the temperature, humidity, and air quality within an aircraft, often including heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. | The MC-21 features state-of-the-art climate control, ensuring a comfortable and healthy environment for passengers and crew. |
| Anti-aerophobia | The design and features used to reduce or eliminate the fear of flying in aircraft passengers, often including the use of calming colors, lighting, and textures. | The MC-21’s interior design includes anti-aerophobia features, such as calming colors and lighting, to create a more comfortable and relaxing environment for passengers. |
| Leasing companies | Companies that provide aircraft to airlines or other customers for a fixed period of time, often in exchange for a series of payments. | The MC-21 has already received 175 orders from Russian Aviation and leasing companies, demonstrating its popularity and potential for widespread adoption. |
Vocabulary Quiz
Using the Present Perfect Continuous to Describe Ongoing Development and Improvement
| Explanation |
|---|
| The present perfect continuous is used to describe an action that started in the past and has continued up to the present moment, often with a focus on the duration or the result of the action. In the context of product development, it is used to emphasize the ongoing process of improvement and refinement. For example, “The MC-21 has been designed from scratch…” implies that the design process is ongoing or has recently finished, and the result is a more efficient aircraft. |
Quiz
1. The MC-21 ____________________ from scratch to achieve perfect aerodynamics.
- has been designed
- was designed
- is designed
- designs
2. The aircraft’s composite wing ____________________ for several years to ensure its safety and efficiency.
- has been tested
- was tested
- is being tested
- tests
3. The avionics units and instruments ____________________ during the entire lifetime of the liner to ensure they remain up-to-date.
- can be upgraded
- have been upgraded
- are being upgraded
- upgrade
4. The first flight of the MC-21 ____________________ soon, with 175 orders already placed.
- is taking
- has taken
- takes
- is going to take
5. The MC-21’s advanced computer-aided design and production methods ____________________ to reduce production costs and increase efficiency.
- have been used
- are being used
- use
- used
Answer Key
1. has been designed
2. has been tested
3. can be upgraded
4. is taking
5. have been used
