In addition to the loss of life, the Russian military action in Ukraine caused a huge tragedy for aviation.
As a result of the second air attack of the Russian forces on the airfield Hostomel (Gostomel) near Kiev, the largest aircraft in the world, the Antonov Mriya An-225, was destroyed.
The confirmation came by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba on one of the social networks.
Antonov said the An-225 was still intact two days earlier, on February 25, 2022, after the first Russian attack.
Only one AN-25 model was built. The plane was nicknamed “Maria” in Portuguese. It had enormous symbolism among aviation pioneers and aviation enthusiasts.
Wherever it landed, the plane drew groups of enthusiasts who were gathering to record the landing of the aviation giant.
Ironically, Ukraine developed the aircraft in the late 1980s to provide logistical support for the Soviet space program.
The AN-225 carried the Russian space shuttle Buran, the first space aircraft to be produced as part of the Soviet/Russian programme. Boran means “snow storm.” Last November, the spacecraft was seen in an aircraft hangar near Baikonur, Kazakhstan, in a state of disrepair.
The Antonov AN-225S had an unparalleled utility in transporting cargo around the world, since, given its size, it alone was able to transport some loads.
The strategic air cargo aircraft was designed by the Antonov Design Bureau of the Ukrainian SSR within the Soviet Union during the 1980s and, having successfully completed its Soviet military missions, was decommissioned for eight years. Subsequently, it was renovated and reintroduced into commercial operations with Antonov Airlines, carrying huge payloads.
As a large aircraft, the Antonov An-225 Mriya held many unique records which included it as the heaviest aircraft ever built and the largest wingspan in operational service. Other records held by the AN-225 were related to shipping in terms of weight and length, as it was capable of carrying up to 640 tons (705 short tons). The AN-225 has attracted such a high degree of public interest that it has been able to achieve a worldwide following due to its size and uniqueness. People often visited airports to find out their arrival and departure times.
The AN-225 was in Brazil in February 2010 and November 2016. Watch in the video below the record set by Sergio Mazzi, on YouTube, when the giant six-engine plane landed at Viracopos Airport.
Oliver Ashford is a contributor to Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter. With an emphasis on accuracy, relevance and accessibility, Oliver aims to present useful information and engaging stories in a straightforward manner, making complex topics easier for readers to understand and follow.