Antonov
Antonov An-124 Ruslan
The Antonov An‑124 Ruslan, designed and built by the Ukrainian‑Russian aerospace firm Antonov, entered service in the late 1980s as the world’s largest cargo airplane until the Boeing 747‑8F. Its development began in 1979, aiming to meet Soviet military requirements for strategic airlift and to support the Buran space‑shuttle programme. The prototype flew on 29 December 1982 and serial production started in 1985; more than 60 aircraft were delivered to both military and civilian operators worldwide.
Measuring 69.1 meters in length with a 73.3‑meter wingspan, the An‑124 can transport up to 150 metric tonnes of payload, including oversized items such as locomotives, turbines, and even other aircraft. Powered by four Ivchenko‑Progress D‑18T turbofan engines, it offers a cruising speed of 800 km/h and a range of roughly 5,000 km with maximum load. Its distinctive nose‑loading door, hinged tail section, and eleven‑wheel landing gear enable operations on relatively short, unpaved runways.
The Ruslan’s unique capability reshaped global logistics, making it indispensable for humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and the transport of heavy industrial equipment. Its continued use by airlines and armed forces underscores its lasting impact on strategic air transport and the evolution of oversized cargo aviation.
Measuring 69.1 meters in length with a 73.3‑meter wingspan, the An‑124 can transport up to 150 metric tonnes of payload, including oversized items such as locomotives, turbines, and even other aircraft. Powered by four Ivchenko‑Progress D‑18T turbofan engines, it offers a cruising speed of 800 km/h and a range of roughly 5,000 km with maximum load. Its distinctive nose‑loading door, hinged tail section, and eleven‑wheel landing gear enable operations on relatively short, unpaved runways.
The Ruslan’s unique capability reshaped global logistics, making it indispensable for humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and the transport of heavy industrial equipment. Its continued use by airlines and armed forces underscores its lasting impact on strategic air transport and the evolution of oversized cargo aviation.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 69.1 metre
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 55
- First Flight
- 1982
- Service Entry
- 1987
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Antonov
- Designer
- Petro Balabuyev
- Developer
- Antonov
- NATO Name
- Condor
- Engine
- Progress D-18T
- Operator
-
Russian Air Force Antonov Airlines 224th Flight Unit Polet Airlines Maximus Air Cargo Volga-Dnepr Airlines
- Wikidata ID
- Q193487