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Antonov An-124 Ruslan

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description Antonov An-124 Ruslan Overview

The Antonov An-124 Ruslan, given the NATO reporting name Condor, is a heavy strategic transport aircraft developed in the Soviet Union during the early 1980s. The aircraft features a unique kneeling main landing gear system that allows the cargo floor to be lowered for easier drive-on loading of heavy equipment. With a maximum payload capacity exceeding 130 tons, it is frequently utilized by militaries and commercial logistics companies to transport outsized cargo globally. The design features a front cargo door that opens upward, allowing vehicles to be driven directly into the hold.

help Antonov An-124 Ruslan FAQ

What is the cargo capacity of the Antonov An-124 Ruslan?

The Antonov An-124 Ruslan, also known by its NATO reporting name Condor, is one of the heaviest cargo transport aircraft in the world. Developed in the Soviet Union during the early 1980s, it was designed to carry massive payloads including oversized military and industrial equipment.

How does the Antonov An-124 load cargo?

The An-124 features a unique kneeling main landing gear system that lowers the fuselage to make loading easier. It also has front and rear cargo doors that allow for drive-on and drive-off vehicle loading.

Who operates the Antonov An-124 today?

The primary operator of the An-124 has historically been Antonov Airlines, a Ukrainian cargo airline, and the Russian Air Force. However, operational statuses of these fleets have been significantly impacted by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Is the Antonov An-124 bigger than the C-5 Galaxy?

The An-124 is very similar in size and capacity to the American Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, though the An-124 was briefly the world's heaviest aircraft when it was introduced. It was eventually surpassed in maximum takeoff weight by the later six-engined Antonov An-225 Mriya.

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