Designed by the Ukrainian Soviet company Antonov in the 1980s, the Antonov An-225 Mriya, is the most massive aircraft ever built. With a wingspan of nearly 88 meters, a height of 18 meters and a length of more than 84 meters, this giant plane defies the laws of gravity. Its maximum take-off weight exceeds 640 tonnes, which also makes this model the heaviest aircraft ever built.
Antonov An-225 Mriya: an ideal aircraft for ultra-heavy transport loads
Featuring six engines, sophisticated aerodynamics and lightweight, flexible composite materials, the An-225 was initially developed to carry heavy loads, including rockets and spacecraft. Its gigantic hold of more than 1,200 cubic meters can accommodate cargo of impressive dimensions, making it an ideal aircraft for exceptional transport missions. Its state-of-the-art navigation and control system has made it possible for pilots to maneuver flights safely and precisely.
The Antonov An-225 Mriya has set many aviation records, including carrying ultra-heavy loads such as electrical transformers, helicopters and even other aircraft. Its role in cargo transportation has made it a pillar of the global aviation industry, transporting industrial, military and aerospace equipment.
Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 on the podium for the largest aircraft
The An-225 is not the only aircraft to have made history with its impressive size. The Airbus A380, nicknamed the “super jumbo”, is the largest airliner in the world, capable of carrying up to 850 passengers. Likewise, the Boeing 747, famous for its hump-shaped silhouette, remains one of the most colossal planes ever built.
The Antonov An-225 Mriya remains the undisputed giant of the air in terms of size and payload capacity. This plane (only one copy exists) was however destroyed recently, in February 2022, as part of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, during a Russian attack on the Hostomel hangar in Ukraine. The Ukrainian aeronautics company Antonov was quick to declare their intentions to rebuild the model with the remains of the destroyed example once the conflict is over. The hope remains that this colossal aircraft can continue to fascinate aviation enthusiasts around the world.
Already published on 05/12/2024
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
