Huge turnout for Australian debut of world’s biggest plane

THE WORLD’S biggest aircraft will make its Australian debut today, touching down in Perth as an estimated 50,000 spectators look on.

The Antonov An-225 Mriya, meaning “dream” in Ukrainian, is due to land in Perth at around 10am local time after a long journey from central Europe.

The 600-tonne aircraft took off from Kiev Airport in Ukraine on Tuesday, first flying to Prague to pick up its cargo — a 120-tonne power generator.

Refuelling stops in Turkmenistan, Hyderabad and Kuala Lumpur followed before the final and longest leg of its journey, the 4067km trip from KL to Perth.

Weather is the main concern for spectators hoping to get a shot of the enormous plane touching down in the West Australian capital.

Built in the 1980s by the Soviet Union’s Antonov Design Bureau, the An-225 is a one-of-a-kind aircraft measuring 84-metres long and with a wingspan of 88-metres.

It has six turbofan engines to power its bulk through the sky, and 32 wheels on which to land.

In contrast the world’s biggest passenger jet — an A380, has four engines, 22 wheels and an 80-metre wingspan.

Worsley Alumina is responsible for hiring the aircraft to carry the new generator down under, but a spokesman refused to say what they were paying.
“We did look into shipping but given the long lead times with the sea freight, the Antonov was a better option for us,” he said.

“It was the only aircraft up for the job. While the generator is not a large piece of equipment, it’s very heavy.”

Brisbane-based planespotter Beau Chenery said the An-225’s arrival in Perth would be an event he’d remember forever.

“It’s the first time this aircraft has come to Australia and it could very well be the last,” said Mr Chenery who estimated about 300 planespotters had made the trip to Perth for the occasion.

“This truly is an opportunity of a lifetime for aviation enthusiasts and for the public.”

Weather was critical for a clear shot, and Mr Chenery was hopeful of a “perfect day”.

“I’ll be hiring a helicopter to photograph the aircraft’s arrival and if there is cloud, it needs to be above 1500 feet so we can get airborne,” he said.

“Bad weather and the opportunity to photograph (the Antonov) from a helicopter is over.”

Perth Airport’s External Affairs Executive Fiona Lander, said they had worked closely with Antonov to try to ensure that everyone who came to see the aircraft got a good view on Taxiway Charlie.

“For the best vantage point for the arrival of the Antonov, the public should head towards Terminal 1 and 2 and follow the event signage on Airport Drive to a temporary dedicated event zone,” said Ms Lander.

“Free parking will be available from 6am in long term carparks G and K.”