The aircraft has a similar fuel system to the SU-26 in that it has a fuselage 70 litre tank, which is the aerobatic tank.   Long-range fuel tanks can be installed in the wings (total of 206 litres extra), which is very convenient, but with some weight penalty.  Conversely, the extra fuel can be in long-range ‘belly tanks’ of different sizes.

There are 3 additional luggage areas built in the SU-31, which make it quite exceptional for an aircraft of this sort: 

1.     A bay behind the pilot
2.     A separate compartment in front of the pilot, behind the engine
3.     In a separate bay in front of the instrument panel, where a specially designed ‘suitcase’ can   be quickly installed and then carried away from the aircraft. 

In terms of flying qualities, the –31 is designed to be somewhat more unstable than the SU-26 – although this is only really a matter of degree and this makes it much more suitable for free-style flying, and certainly a great deal easier to snap-roll than the SU-26.

The canopy is side-opening, which means that it can be opened with the engine idling, which can be a great benefit in very hot weather while an aircraft is waiting for take-off.

Like all other Sukhois, the SU-31 can use either the 360hp M14P or the 400hp M14PF, although as a practicality more aircraft have the more powerful engine fitted.

The SU-31 has continued the extraordinary competition track record of the SU-26, winning successive World and European championships in both men’s and women’s categories.