SuperJet International has kicked off the Paris Air Show by securing a $1 billion letter of intent from Malev for 30 Superjet regional jets.

Delivery of the aircraft would commence in 2011, with six aircraft to be handed over that year. The airline has opted for the SSJ100/95 version of the RJ with 98 seats.

Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Co., which is developing the aircraft, is targeting type certification of the Superjet this year, as well as the first customer delivery. European Aviation Safety Agency type certification is to follow next year.

Malev CEO Martin Gauss says the aircraft will be used on regional and medium-haul routes.

Malev is in the process of restructuring its operations to regain its financial footing. Gauss says that "in its revised, long-term fleet restructuring program, Malev forecasts that the airline will register growth in the next decade and it will require more aircraft than at present."

The aircraft will be powered by the PowerJet SaM-146 engines being developed by NPO Saturn and Snecma.

Photo of Malev aircraft over Budapest: oneworld