Antonov A-124: The Ultimate Marvel of Aviation Revealed!
The Antonov An-124 Ruslan, originating from the 1980s and crafted by the Antonov design bureau in the Ukrainian SSR within the Soviet Union, stands as a sizable strategic airlift aircraft boasting four engines. Presented below are some essential particulars concerning the Antonov An-124: Guided by General Designer Oleg K. Antonov, the AN-124 Ruslan materialized as the concluding aircraft within his oversight.
Manifesting as one of the most expansive aircraft globally and intentionally tailored for transporting substantial or voluminous cargo, it holds a prominent place. To facilitate a cargo door situated at the rear (positioned on the lower fuselage) that can be operated mid-flight without compromising structural integrity, the aircraft incorporates a dual fuselage.
Differing slightly in fuselage length, exhibiting a marginally wider wingspan, and demonstrating the ability to bear a payload seventeen percent larger than the American Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, the An-124 is characterized. Boasting a payload capacity reaching a maximum of 150 tonnes, the aircraft’s capabilities are considerable. With a cruising speed achieved over an operational range of 15,700km, the AN-124 showcases its extensive reach.
Propelled by four ZMKB Progress D-18T (229 kN) turbofans, the AN-124 features enhanced propulsion. On December 24th, 1982, the inaugural flight of the AN-124 took place. Versatility defines the AN-124, having served a diverse array of roles encompassing the transportation of exceptionally weighty and outsized freight, provisions of humanitarian assistance, and even the conveyance of the Obelisk of Axum. During the Battle of Antonov Airport in Kyiv, a distressing incident occurred in February 2022, involving the obliteration of an An-124 due to Russian artillery fire.
