On June 24, 2021, Antonov An-225 Mriya departed from Karachi, in Pakistan en route to RAF Brize Norton, with a special mission.
However the aircraft was contracted to assist with the withdrawal of the British armed forces from Afghanistan.
Additionally it carried three RAF Puma helicopters from Afghanistan back to the United Kingdom.
The unique plane was about to take off upon delivering the impressive payload when the power of its 6 Progress D-18 turbofan engines blasted the perimeter fence around the airbase.
Moreover fortunately, no injuries were reported among the planespotters that were standing behind.
Antonov-Capacity
With an MTOW of 600 metric tons and can also hold volume of 1,300 cubic meters, the unique plane is the perfect asset for such specific transport operations.
Announced by US President Joe Biden in April 2021, the withdrawal of coalition troops from Afghanistan began on May 1, 2021, and should continue until September of the same year.
The retreat is primarily carried out using British and US C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. Several private transport contractors, notably operating the Antonov 124 Ruslan, were also called to assist.
Also the flight marked the return to operations of the Antonov An-225 after almost a year of routine maintenance work.
Also read: The collision between the Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 and Cargolux Boeing 747.
Also know: Jet Airways are finally open to fly again. It will perform according to alternate slots. Know more.
Aviation A2Z serves you with all aviation related updates on fingertips. Subscribe us and do not miss a single story.
Stay connected Stay informed!
