Will the Antonov AN225 be REBUILT?!
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The Amazing AN225 was among the first victims of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In this video we will discuss how it happened, explain a controversy sourrounding the demise and aldo wether there is any chance of the Antonov AN225 being rebuilt again.
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Below you will find the links to videos and sources used in this episode. Enjoy checking them out!
Pictures
Antonov An-225 Mriya (1989) photos, Oleg V. Belyakov, Wikimedia Commons
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
KZhead Channels
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HOSTOMEL AIRPORT. Here was the "russian world”, Dmytro Antonov
• АЭРОПОРТ ГОСТОМЕЛЬ. Зд...
Dymtro Channel
/ dantonov
Antonov An225 Mriya landing in England 4K, TopFelya's
• Antonov An225 Mriya la...
TopFelya's
/ topfelyaairplanes
Articles
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Why China Wants to Put the Gargantuan Antonov An-225 Mriya Back Into Production, The War Zone
www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone...
Antonov Company Employees Hit Back At Pilot’s Accusations Over An-225 Destruction, Simply Flying
simpleflying.com/antonov-empl...
Rebuilding ‘Mriya’ - Antonov Plans To Resurrect World’s Biggest Aircraft - AN-225; Eurasian Times
eurasiantimes.com/antonov-ann...
Putin Thought Ukraine Would Fall Quickly. An Airport Battle Proved Him Wrong, The Wall Street Journal
www.wsj.com/articles/putin-th...
simpleflying.com/antonov-empl....
Social Media Posts
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Aeronews, Facebook Post
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Antonov Company Twitter
twitter.com/antonovcompany/st...
Antonov Company Facebook
/ antonov.company
www.aircargonews.net/airlines...
Spot media bias and outsmart algorithms with Ground News: ground.news/MentourNow 💕
This is an excellent resource and the 'go to' place for fact check. Thank you again Petter for these excellent productions. Be it the documentaries on Metour Pilot (main channel) or these capsules here on Mentour Now🤍👌🏽. Your work inspires a whole new generation of aspiring aviators and enthusiasts alike. While bringing nostalgia and glory in the eyes of all who've ever been connected to the aviation industry and worked closely on some of the planes or companies you cover. Thank you to your 🤗whole team💟.
I want to sign up, what's your referral code? The link just takes me to the app. When I go to sign up it's the normal menu. Is therea code or something?
I don't see it being rebuilt as a commercial venture unfortunately, for all the reasons you mention it simply wouldn't be economical as an investment. On the other hand none of those problems are in any way insurmountable and it would be such a powerful symbol. I could see that happening actually such hurdles are, if anything, often seen as positives with a symbolic project like that in that they only make it a greater accomplishment if completed. If we ever get to see her fly again that is likely how it will come about.
For the engines they can use 4 ge9x or maybe 6 again
This is a great sponsor, as close to unbiased as it gets in today's crazy times.
What makes me personally sad about the 225 demise is that the 225 created so much infrastructure in the world. From carrying the world's heaviest single piece of cargo a gas engine turbine to Armenia. To the longest load carried in an aircraft being wind turbine blades. This plane has helped improve the infrastructure of many places around the world.
delivered aid to natural disaster striken japan once
Absolutely true!
@@kalui96 If Antonov started taking donations I would donate specifically because of the disaster recovery efforts this plane was used in.
@@jtjames79, they did. But as chief pilot of AN225 Dmytro Antonov said in his videos, current management of Antonov company is not very reliable and there is no decision yet to rebuild Mriya, so there are no guarantees those donations will reach it's destination. First, the war needs to finish and official decision needs to be made to rebuild An225. After that there should be international organizations and supervisors involved in project, which will help rebuild and supervise project, also making sure that all donations directed for project will reach specially established and audited accounts, but not some individual companies, including Antonov.
@@andy-ally agreed.
What I'd love to see would be for Boeing, Airbus, and others to come together to contribute to and assist Antonov in rebuilding this iconic plane with modern systems and engines. It was, after all, the biggest plane in the world and a trophy of the aviation world. If it has to be rebuilt from scratch, may as well make it suited for the modern age and capable of carrying even more than ever before.
I support this sentiment and statement 100%
Surely they will just jump in and support competition, real or not.
Good idea let's hope it's done
Not very realistic. First off the plane has no purpose. A better move would be to cobble together one non-operational example for placement in an aviation museum.
@@msromike123 I wouldn't go so far as to say no purpose. It had a carrying capacity far exceeding anything else in the sky. Seldom needed, sure, but there have been parts moved that would have otherwise required much slower boats and trains.
Operator Starsky is a Press Officer in the Ukrainian Defence Forces who was based at, and involved in defending the Hostomel Airport. His unit was responsible for disabling the runways with artillery fire. He is a primary source of on the ground information and has spoken about this attack from first hand experience. I cannot speak highly enough of him.
I saw a great one with him at chernobyl after the russians jetted out of there. He was showing some of the trenches, fighting holes, and banks for tanks going hull down and other vehicles. It looked like the side of an ant farm. This wasnt just a few holes. The best was a worker there said some of the clowns there seemed to legitimately not know where they were digging up. They were egging these guys on telling them to dig deeper, and they did 🤣 then the guys started getting pulled out to treat varying severity radiation sickness amd burns.
@@mtmadigan82 But the sad thing is it hit the common soldiers and not the officers.
@@user-sm3xq5ob5d I'm pretty sure that someone's going to eventually shoot the officers as payment for their radiation poisoning
He's the same one promoting "fake" Russian phone calls of Russian soldiers telling their wife's they have to rape Ukrainian women... Sorry dude... This dude is unreliable.
The defense of Hostomel will likely be seen as the seminal point in Ukraine surviving Putin's attempted but poorly executed blitzkrieg.
I was at Billund Airport, which was the last airport it ever flew from. I feel super lucky to have been there, to see the last Take-Off of the AN-225
One day the house was shaking and I said to my dad that's a huge plane I went to the window and saw this humongous thing fly and i told him to look. He said no its just normal and I got into an argument saying hes wrong its massive, some back and forth about who was right so I went on flightradar24. AN225. Had just flown out of Shannon airport. I told him that's the biggest plane that would have ever flown over the house and he conceded and we both found it funny. I spent a few minutes reading out stats about how huge it is to him to rub it in :D
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It was a common sight in Anchorage, Alaska. It is a sight to see landing and taking off. I would love to see the 225 rebuilt with all the new updates available, and sponsered by the big aviation companies around the globe. After all it truly is a great piece of aviation history.
That level of damage is a Strike. A new airframe will have to be built.
Won't happen in a million years, but just imagine Boeing and Airbus collabing with Antonov to build a current version of the 225. Would be epic.
6 GEX engines would be a monster
@@Nic-te3vq Guessing you mean GE9X, and you'd really only need four. My day job is working on that engine project!
@@UncleKennysPlace So it'll be a AN-124? Not really the same
@@honolulu.spotter I mean I guess you can call it the same if the size of the plane is similar to the 225, but itll just have 124 vibes. Those engines pack hell of a punch so it might probobably wont need an extra two.
@@kuzi1 True True, But the AN-225 Was Known for its 6 engines..adding only 4 won't make it the same..not that it will ever be the same but yk, If the AN-225 Turns out to have only 4, then you might as rename it to the AN-124's Kinda Bigger Sister
Hi Petter , its heartbreaking to see Captain Antonov walk around his aircraft ,its was awful just to see his his face ,he looked crest fallen and said he didn’t think it would be rebuilt again , yes it was a first reaction but you could see his whole body reaction to his special aircraft now left in cinders ! i think everyone could feel for him .
Losing the cold war has consequences. Time to move forward, not backwards. This airplane to me just symbolizes Ukrainian domination by the Soviet Union.
He and other staff wanted to save the planes but management never gave the ok. even with only 5 or even 4 engines it would of been able to safely take off and fly.
Home away from home
I'll buy that aircraft Ledford air I'd love to buy it
When a plane becomes an even more powerful national symbol AFTER being destroyed. But I can see why, of course. Mriya was a dream-catcher, like Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant.
It just been assembled of Ukrainian Soviet Republic territory on Soviet plant and was constructed by Antonov who was Russian. So it's a bit unclear to me what relation it has to Ukrainian nation to be the symbol....
@@Winda25 welcome to propaganda 101…
@@Winda25 because Ukraine restored her and her name was known by almost everyone. She carried her colors and her countries pride. The statue of liberty was built in France by a french sculptor based on his French wife yet it is a symbol of America?
@@Winda25 because there was no such thing as "Soviet plant". The plane was built by Ukrainians. It's even got a Ukrainian name which was something unheard of during the soviet era.
@@CockroachSlidy No, Antonov, the man who's name is on the plane, is Russian. Most of the engineers working under Mr Antonov were Russian. Most of the parts that make the plane came from Russia too, which is why they never finished number 2. Antonov being cut off from Russia is why this "Design Bureau" has no ability to design or build anything and hasn't in decades.
I was in the garden one day and heard a very strange noise above me. I looked up, and there she was with those 6 engines singing away. This wonderful aircraft must stir the same emotions in Ukrainian aviation fans as some of us in the U.K. feel for the demise of the beautiful Concorde. I truly hope Ukraine gets their Concorde back again even if we can’t.
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@@andreypetrov4868 Lol 2nd superpower, I smell a Putler puthain.
@@Monsoon_Enjoyer F off Boris Slava Ukraine, d34th to the invaders!
Decades ago I was flying (Canadian domestic flights) from Saskatoon, SK, to Nanaimo, BC with a stopover in Calgary, AB before going into Vancouver, BC and transferring to a puddle jumper for the final leg. As we were taxiing out from the Calgary terminal the pilot came over the PA and told us to look out the left side of the aircraft, as the AN225 was just lining up on the runway for take off, and that it was a rare opportunity to see the largest plane in the world. What a beast! Large planes like that seem so impossible - they seem to barely move yet they leave the ground! I've felt the same watching the old Mars water bombers clawing their way through the air. Absolutely incredible, and it was a true honour to see the AN225 in action. I hope that the 225 can rise from the ashes like a phoenix, but won't hold my breath. So sad, the useless destruction of war, the loss of life, and the emotional trauma that will last for life times. One distinctive aircraft lost is a loss - the human toll is truly tragic. God, and the rest of us, protect and support the good people of Ukraine.
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Wonderful comment! 👍
This beautiful aircraft flew over my home several times over recent years when leaving Adelaide Airport (South Australia). The stunning and distinctive sound of its engines and the massive size of it was something to behold. There were traffic jams around the airport viewing area when it was known to arrive or depart or just to see it on the tarmac. Very sad that we may never see or hear it again. Thank you for your great channel, love it!
And flew over mine as it did a low pass over Lake Washington Seattle before landing at Boeing field. The scale was amazing
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Adelaide, 8th September 2018, we were there with a camera. Video of the crowds and the plane: kzhead.info/sun/pJSnlpiBZIiDlJE/bejne.html
@@ejholden8851 , thank you so much for this video and for the memory. ❤
@@greenwitch9836 No probs, glad you liked it! I remember that day well, we got there 4 hours before it was due to take off so we could get a good parking spot to film it from.
I once flew into O'hare for a short layover, and while we we taxiing to the terminal I saw AN-225 sitting on the apron. At the time I didn't know very much at all about aviation, but the sight of this plane inspired a deep passion for learning as much as possible about the industry.
I hate seeing the waste of war, what a waste of resources, lives, and time... I was hoping those days were behind us for a while.
Me too 😔
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The powers that be love perpetual war its a steady money stream for them. The people that send these poor souls to war as cannon fodder are the very same people who make money from it. This is true for all countries.
Exactly. A relativly small group of humans are responsible for reversing modern societal progression on earth. The groups extreme lack of intelligence effects every single person living on our planet.
Been following Dmitry since the beginning of the war. A really good channel. I remembered him from a documentary I watched a few years ago about the 225, which got me to want to look him up on social media. He has been posting a video every day of the war. He was originally laid off from work at Antonov but for some time has been working for them again and has been outspoken the entire time about the past management, who have been replaced. Slava Ukraini.
Heroyam wsralo.
As have I. He looks like a nice guy and when I saw him doing his walk around and heard the emotion in his voice I wanted to give him a big bear hug and cry with him.
Loved this aircraft. Some 30 years ago, I was living in Cologne, and was fortunate enough to see the A225 flying low several times.
Let’s give props to the incredible structural strength on the cessna 152!
AH AH THAT FRICKIN LITTLE PLANE IS AWESOME I LOVE IT😅😅IT WANTS TO TAKE ON A BIG ONE
Thank you for that video! Mriya was flying each time over our house - we lived in 21km from Hostomel airport, so sometimes we heard when Mriya turned on its engines, and sometimes we observed how it fly. I really hope that we'll build new Mriya after our win in war.
Petter/Mentour, Thank you for this video! Your commentary and analysis is so relevant. Until it was destroyed I - like many ignorant Americans - did not realize that the AN-225 was built in Ukraine and assumed it was built by the Russians. What a tragedy for Ukraine and the entire world that this war has had to happen. Paul (in MA USA)
Thanks for sharing. I've been following Dmytro's channel for a few years now, and I have already known almost everything you were talking about, but it's important to share the facts to more people. Especially in such balanced and thoughtful way.
While it's also a bit too soon to consider memorials to this war, I think a possibility would be to make the remains of AN-225 safe (get the fuel out, stabilize it, etc.), then preserve it in place as a memorial. The enormity of the aircraft represents the enormity of the loss to the Ukrainian people. Of course, it's entirely up the the people of Ukraine to make that kind of decision. But if they would choose to do that, it would be a place on my bucket list to visit.
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After having the privilege to see her in person I do believe that they should build another one, she was the most beautiful aircraft that I have ever seen and filled a gap that no other aircraft ever could.
Yes.
Looking at wiki. The second airframe is code An-235. So it's an improved version of the aircraft. Yes the world absolutely needs a new new aircraft, there's plenty of transport requirements that need this aircraft. I would expect the new aircraft will have current generation engines that are a lot more efficient.
There is a role that this aircraft filled, that nothing else can, which is rapid movement of large machinery, which has been used in emergencies before for things like getting power plants or critical factories back online. And while the subset of things that truly can’t be done another way (including time) is small, that could justify the cost of completing the second one.
The thing about having a plane like the Mriya is that *if* you do need it (and it has seen steady demand), nothing else will do.
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Think about the need for such an aircraft! Things got done before and now, since Mria is destroyed.
As much as I'm an environmental advocate, the principle of this aircraft being rebuilt as a peaceful symbol for its' peaceful purpose seems to convey an important message.
It should have a lettering on its side saying something like "Русский военный корабль, иди на хуй".
It’s all about sending a message
Can always run it on biofuel, Jet bio is a thing now.
Fully agreed! Later on, when technology is ready, it could always get the neccessary environmental updates. It will probably be already a bit more fuel efficient if it uses redesigned and bought in modern parts.
All other considerations aside, the AN-225 fulfilled a specialty heavy-lift role that nobody else could.
Thank you! 🙏❤️ Thank you for so many things: - for calling the war "the war" and not shying away from it, - for supporting Ukraine and for being respectful towards this national tragedy by means of actually communicating with Dmytro Antonov about it, -and most importantly, for understanding how important the notion of Mriya is for Ukrainians. We will rebuild it, whatever the cost. We may build it different, better, and more eco-friendly, if necessary, and we will build it without russian help/parts/equipment. We will welcome help from our real allies in this - the USA, the UK and the EU. And just as before, our Mriya will fly proudly, changing the world for the better. BTW, we have already built our first aircraft with no russian parts several years ago, I bet we can do it again. Thank you from all Ukrainian hearts 💙💛 Slava Ukraini!
Once more your clear words and pure logik are admirable. Obviusly the 225 was used just because it existed. And yes I too belive that a resurection using the second "body" has to do primarily with the pride of Ukranian people than commersial need.... And been sentimental, I do hope that it WILL come back in the air and evenmore using some old parts just for the continuation of the legasy...... Again thank you for a magnificent video...
I agree with you but I think (as an outsider who shouldn't decide any of this) that 300 million, in the current situation, can be used for things far greater than restoring pride. At the same time it would make me sad too if this the end.
As always, a thoughtful and insightful podcast - the humanitarian good that this plane did is the saddest part of its loss in my opinion.
On the note of the systems, I doubt they would want to put the old systems back in. While its an amazing plane. Its clear that the planes systems (and interior) hasn’t been touch much since it was made. That stuff is ancient, (and questionable). It would benefit greatly from modern systems and engines. If it had not been destroyed, it wasn’t far from needing a huge overhaul anyway. The plane is used to carry stuff that too large for normal planes. So I think its worth modernizing it to continue on the freight missions. 225 2.0 would be great.
Your comment is pure conjecture. The technology on board isn't 'ancient' or 'questionable' - the Soviet-era avionics have had several upgrades over the years, including full GPS/GLONASS integration and work incredibly well. The D-18T engines have had service life improvements. Also, you say she 'wasn't far from needing a huge overhaul' - she had a six-month heavy check back in 2020 where she was fitted with a brand new engine control and fuel management system.
Dmitry Antonov said, that a rebuild Mirja would (and should) have the same outline than the destroyed one, because it had a good arodynamic for flying. But the inner parts, especially the controlling parts and the cockpit would (and should) be build with current modern technology.
that’s the case for most russian planes,, look at the fighters, all analog instruments
@@bobl78 that is a gross exaggeration. They now have glass cockpits.
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I had seen one of the smaller Antonov planes parked next to where I was working on a tarmac in Las Vegas, NV in 1995. It was dollied out and the entire construction came to a halt to watch it take off. It was absolutely amazing to see. Then sometime in 2007, I was working on the southwest side of the valley and seen another Antonov plane flying over us not that high above us but looking quite amazing as it cleared the mountainside of Red Rock Canyon. I can only hope that the fighting ends permanently and peace is a permanent lifestyle. I pray for all the families that have suffered from their losses and get their peace of mind back. I’m sending as much love from Las Vegas as possible from an old dude, girlfriend and friends. Antonov 225 might not fly again. But it will always be in our memories.
Working in Orlando of Econ Rd. Looked up thinking I would see a 747 over my head what joy to see the AN225, Very Cool
My Dad (in his 80s) was at an airshow many years ago (Oshkosh) and they flew that plane in. He is a pilot, and said everyone ran over to start checking out the plane. They said that it looked so amazing, but as they got closer and got inside of it, they could start seeing the poor workmanship. Parts on engine bent, wiring inside loose with cheap connectors, stuff Pilots notice. He said you couldn't help but notice the lack of workmanship once you were close and it was everywhere inside the plane. He said it almost looked like a fake plane, because on the inside it had so many issues but looked great on outside. The next day they had it roped off so you couldn't get too close to it and didn't let anyone near it, like they didn't want people to view it any closer or see the flaws. He said from the ropes you couldn't see a single flaw or when it was taking off or landing. I'm sure seeing this big plane in person would be cool to see takeoff.
Wasn't that near the end or just after the fall of the Soviet Union? It would make sense it was in a bad state of maintenance, just as the Russian material is right now.
@@mjouwbuis 🤣🤣 you watch too much CNN
I was there that year and got to take the full tour. Was only like 10 at the time though, so didn't notice all that.
@@ryanjones2297 I noticed this myself, auiorvioure
I was also able to visit the 225, when it had an emergency stop in Prague. Basically stretched version of 124, inspired by much older C-5. My visit was in 1991 and the captain, big burly man, was complaining, that it's a terrible machine. Leaks everywhere and primitive cockpit. So, it's true, the plane was not a state of art. Just designed to carry Russian space shuttle, not for very long distances. After that tine, Mria was grounded for 10 years, before making name for itself. To rebuild it, or rather finish the second fuselage would be mainly for prestige of Ukraine. So 6 engines is a part of that prestige. Putting large 4 engines would also mean redesigning the wings. Better solution would be modern more fuel efficient engines, like 70,000lb thrust GEnx-1b70's or Trent 1000' There was also consideration to increase the size into AN-325. That would be fine with 6 engines instead of eight, in that time. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonov_An-325
I feel lucky to have the moment of both second to last landing and last takeoff in Billund printed in my memory. Naturally, without knowing that it was its last at that point. I have video on my phone that always gives me the same goosebumps I had, when seeing that enormous wingspan coming towards you before taking off into sky.
What a politics, technical, economical and emotional combination in this video ¡¡ Congratulations ¡¡
Thank you for exploring the subject. The point you make is perfect. It is amazing piece of equipment and epitome of aviation yet people are way more important. You are the best!
Just like the space station I have a feeling countries will pull funds to build another plane to carry heavy stuff
i have a feeling developing a new freighter of that size from scratch would be A LOT more expensive than finishing the second 225. in the case of the 225, most of the work is already done, so why do it again?
I'm not sure we'll see anything like the ISS again for a long time...
@@mrxmry3264 Because most of the avionics work for the second 225 would need to be re-done already as well as having to re-certify it again too so the most complex (expensive) and time consuming parts have to be done whether they finish the second 225 or start from scratch with a total new design. A newer 225 could be beneficial by removing two engines and using four more modern engines, making operating the newer cargo jet significantly cheaper as well as having spare parts and replacements still in production and readily available. I'd love to see Ukraine win the war and rebuild the massive 225 to triumphantly show the world that Russia can't stop Ukrainian spirits, but I doubt that it will be worth it financially... (Then again, I'd love to see Ukraine prove me wrong here)
@@someguy4915 I think LockMart would pitch in, especially if they can get the design rights, and make a C-5 replacement with it.
I really hope we can see 225 in the sky again.🇺🇦❤️🙏🌻
Me too!
The press release from Antonov Airlines after its chief pilot criticism stated that the they had been busy expediting work on all aircraft to be moved out and that the 225 was to be moved on Feb 24 as soon as work was done, but was bombed before. In the end, you move your money making aircraft before the showcase one. The 225 had been hired by the Québec government during ealry phase of COVID to bring in a large shipment of masks/gowns (light but large volume) and had been quite an event in Montréal when it arrived. Lets not forget that from the abandonment of Buran till recent years, the 225 was more or less a museum piece and Antonov had brought it back to life in the last decade or so to offer it as commercial service. I don't know how often it was needed for jobs that the 124 couldn't do, but for COVID, its large volume became an asset. I would hope a new 225 would sport new engines, avionics etc and not sure if they can go with 4 or still need 6 engines. And it would be a great showcase for Antonov Design Bureau to showcase its ability to make a modern plane and become relevant instead of being a relic of the Soviet era. (Assuming Ukraine survives as a western country instead of going back to USSR).
During the pandemic the Antonov 225 flew into San Francisco and we got to see it fly by. It was huge! Amazing sight.
I like the clip showing an An-225 engine, with a carburettor!! Always great content sir, thanks again for keeping us updated!
Thank YOU for watching!
I was waiting for your video on this subject tbh so sad that such an iconic structure, one of a kind has been destroyed. We all saw how Mriya blew RAF Brize Norton perimeter fence and inside the flight deck where the pilot had to use whole forearm to increase thrust in all engines at once :) RIP Mriya...
This is a great video, Sir Mentour pilot! One of your very best! Informative, interesting, and timely ! Thanks.
Back in, I believe, late 2018, I saw the 225 parked at the Philadelphia International Airport near one of the outer fences. The fences had a covering, I guess for security, but that plane was so large, it towered well over the top. She was absolutely majestic
The right thing to do would be to finally build the planned An-325, an even bigger plane with 8 engines in total!
Flying environmental disaster!
@@VeeAyyDee I don't think that that's an argument. Cargo aircrafts of these sizes are there to transport special cargo. Cargo that - most of the time - can't be transported by other means. So if you want you could call it a "necessary evil". But I think that that is not helpful. If you want to call out "environmental disasters" how about you start with passenger aircrafts and packages that are sent around the world? If an AN-325 would be build (or the AN-225 rebuild) then that would be done for a reason and therefore - in my opinion - trumping the environmental drawbacks.
Modern technology could allow for the 225 to need only 4 engines. The engines used on the AN-225 are very powerful at 51,000lbf, but GE now makes engines up to 108,000lbf or so. Edit: to put that in perspective, the 737-800 that Petter flies, is only 24,200lbf per engine if they're using the largest option: CFM 7 series 24.
@@krozareq I think 4 ge9x would do it
Thank you. Mriya is certainly big but the "Mriya", "the dream" of Ukraine is bigger than just an aircraft, however big or great. With unity we stand, and our dream is leading us to the victory and a better, brighter tomorrow, no matter how dark today can be.
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Thanks Mentour ! A balanced & compassionate approach.
The quality of your content is so good. I've become addicted to learning from your KZhead channels. 👏👏👏👏👏
As others have said, this plane was a key in moving so much infrastructure around the world, including a huge generator to here in Australia. It would be nice to see large industry around the world invest in rebuilding the Antanov, perhaps with newer technology engines both for their own benefits (the worlds industry) as well as an investment helping Ukraine.
Waiting for these videos like for freshly baked bread ❤️
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Thank you, I have been waiting for this episode for a few weeks!
Thank you very much for this video! I can't explain in words how it is important for us in these tough times.
I hope Airbus creates a joint venture with Antonov. Ukrainian ingenuity could be a massive boon to the EU.
This would be great and Airbus need more know how with transport-planes.
*Soviet ingenuity
@@Behemoth29 no, Ukrainian ingenuity. The one the Soviets stole and claimed as their own.
@@Argosh Riiight... I'm sure Antonov aircraft would exist if the USSR didn't.
All the design was done in the USSR, not in Ukraine. Ukrain inherited the plane but they do not have the design mussle to do such thing again.
I highly doubt it is over, and I'll give a few very solid reasons: 1) Postwar, Antonov will want to avoid working with Russia, for obvious reasons. 2) Ukraine will be likely working with the West going forward. Therefore, Antonov has a _fantastic_ opportunity to start offering their products to the West. In addition, the West will likely fund for the rebuilding of their facilities. 3) With Boeing retiring the 747, and no Western equivalent in the works, many civilian cargo operators will be looking at Antonov's AN-124 as a potential replacement (considering that it's bigger than the _C-5 Galaxy_ of all things, that's not a huge stretch). Western operators will be more interested with Western backing. Antonov was already considering restarting production as a tandem effort with Russia leading up to the war, so other operators pitching in (perhaps even getting Western _military_ orders as well) may make financial sense for them to resume production. 3a) Just to add to one of the points from the end of the video; it will likely need brand new systems regardless, if/when they restart AN-124 production. They can easily transfer those to the existing incomplete AN-225 aircraft, or - preferably - a new-build airframe. Making a brand new derivative of the AN-124 design (and naming it the AN-225 in honour of it) would make more logistical and financial sense than it would be to finish the existing AN-225 (unless it is similar enough that it can be used). Just picture an AN-225 with a fully glass cockpit and all the same modern systems as an Airbus and Boeing aircraft have, and that's what I'm thinking along the lines of. Heck, I'd imagine Airbus could make the AN-124/AN-225 a joint venture, as it would be immensely profitable for both companies - _especially_ since Airbus lacks _any_ meaningful cargo aircraft within its design inventory anywhere near even the 747. 4) As the AN-225 is a derivative of the AN-124, all they would need to do is to design new wings and a tail section that emulates the AN-225's original design, in order to build a new one. All the AN-225 is is an AN-124 with extra fuselage sections, new wings, two extra engines, and a redesigned tail (which was done for the Buran, not for any other reason, so in theory the AN-124 tail should suffice). 5) Perhaps most importantly, as some of highlighted, it was literally the _only_ aircraft in the world that could haul certain types of oversized loads. There was never enough demand (or funding) for two, but there will _most definitely_ be demand for a replacement. With a new build, it would also be cheaper to build a second/third/etc as the tooling would be available. 6) National pride.
I hope you are right.
6) What national pride it can be while AN-225 was build by Soviet Union with constructors all around USSR working on it. And unlikely Antonov can rebuilt it... They lack specialists and production equipment to do so.
🌻🌻🌻🇺🇦🇺🇲🌻🌻🌻 Love your channel Petter ❤ I was thrilled to find Denys Davydov and his Pilot Blog channel through watching your Mentour Pilot channel. Before this beautiful Ukrainian jet was damaged, Denys shows a walk through on his channel. It just amazing to experience 🌻
Thank you for bringing this out to the world. And spreading crucial information. Appreciate that!
Comment on patreon. Excellent video Petter. Tack så mycket.
Is not over! MRIA 2.0 to be
AN225 was piece of art, beast of the skies
TY Petter for another awesome video.
I'd like to believe that boeing and airbus could contribute financially and maybe some parts. It would be a great world contribution. Global funding and donations could help too.
Am I the only one literally moved to tears by that (and I am talking just about the aircraft at the moment)?
No you're not. 😢
End of the era as the Chinese would never have commited enough to help in the unfinished мріяти. Thank you again Petter for these excellent productions. Be it the documentaries on Metour Pilot (main channel) or these capsules here on Mentour Now🤍👌🏽. Your work inspires a whole new generation of aspiring aviators and enthusiasts alike. While bringing nostalgia and glory in the eyes of all who've ever been connected to the aviation industry and worked closely on some of the planes or companies you cover. Thank you to your 🤗whole team💟.
Thank you for your kind words! It’s really appreciated! 💕💕
🤗🤍alwayyys💟
I’m one of these aviation fans. I never thought I would be but Petter’s channels have changed that. Thank you Petter 😊
the reason the chinese didn't buy it is the incomplete 225 cannot be move so it has to be finished there, and the Kyiv region doesn't have the required tooling to finish it. basically the only way to finish it is build an entire new aircraft production infrastructure, and that is alot of cost just to finish 1 plane... imagine airbus restarting the A380 line just to build 1 more plane. the only way to economically rebuild the 225 is really to build it brand new in china, but if you are building a new plane, you might as well use a new design. so I agree with this video, it just pointless. 225 with it design occupies a special part of soviet aviation history, but just like the buran shuttle it was design to carry, they never manage to realise their potential since their designer, the USSR no longer exist.
Petter, thank you for the history of, and possible future of such a storied, awesome aircraft. Excellent presentation by you and your crew. Thanks!! 👍✈✈👍
Yesss! All the manufacturing companies should help to the reconstruction. This bird is a symbol! Please help the bird fly again!
When I went to Billund to see It fly then I had no Idea It would be the last time. I will always treasure the moment. Freezing my fingers and nutts was a small price to pay... Personally I think the spare frame In fully rebuild form will serve as a hope.
I'd say it's definitely a good idea to rebuild it. All other considerations aside, the AN-225 was capable of a far heavier and larger payload than anything else currently flying. Of course, you wouldn't use it for anything that can be split into multiple payloads, but for monolithic payloads that can't be broken up, the AN-225 fulfilled a specialty heavy-lift role that nobody else could.
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Been looking forward to this video. Thanks for doing this. Hopefully they will make the second one. I would hope they upgrade it with the latest systems and engines. So it won't just be a tribute, but an actually very useful workhorse
I actually seen that specific 225 Antonov in person in Cyprus - Larnaca airport just about 10 years ago, I was watching it for 30 minutes until it took-off. Superb.
My grandfather was one of the engineers working on Mriya. I have his patents for the engine detail he invented. Now he's gone, and I have a stuffed toy plane only to remember these dark days
Even better technology exists now. The question is, who is going to pay for it? Ukraine is not in shape to do such a thing. After the war, they already signed deal wit Black Rock to rebuild the country. I'm sure Mria is on the list.
When I looked at the options of hearing of the destruction of the 225, I was sad and angry as something great had been taken away from the aviation community. However, if you stop up and look at it, I think this was the best fate the 225 could have hoped to get, going out in a blaze rather than the other options on the table. If they had evacuated the 225, win or lose the war, history has shown us what the fate usually becomes for such aircraft. They get flown out of the country, parked at an airstrip, away from the action, money is lost and spent in the home country, meanwhile the airport fees where the aircraft is, racks up and the time to live parts on the aircraft ticks away and it needs maintenance done, even when not flown. At the end of the whole ordeal what happens is the aircraft ceases to be air worthy as the funds to take care of it isn't there after the destruction of war has happened. So the fate of that aircraft is either they are left to rot or chopped up for scrap which is an ever sadder ending if you ask me.
If they look to rebuild an entire secondary aircraft, I dont think storage fee's would be the downfall :P and even then, it'd be alot cheaper to reuse parts from a whole aircraft than a destroyed one
@@ValentineC137 Doesn't matter if they are timed out / expired... Well if you do not care about air worthyness. And remember, after a war you would not have the funds to undertake such an operation anyway as they are needed elsewhere to provide the things that matter, such as food and housing. The same thing has happened to other countries, I think it was Iran that evacuated a few really nice 747s, they were abandoned as the cost of getting them air worthy and back home was way too high.
You may be right sir. Watching Australia's F1-11 fleet get mostly buried in a landfill was not a dignified end to a proud aircraft. Nor would ending up as a pigeon coop be for this one.
Just here to pay my respects I remember 225 being in the UK and also being on Auf wiedersen pet when the lads were taking the transporter bridge to Arizona so she was an actress as well as the queen of the sky's, let's hope with the 2nd fuselage another more upto date Antanov can be built, Ukraine is famous for the flying massive work of Art, Russia hasn't just robbed Ukraine it's robbed the world of this massive monster.R.I.P let's hope she's like a phoenix rising from the Ashes.
wow this Format is so much better than from your Main Channel, so glad i have found it (pure accident) ;) the distruction of the A225 feels almost like the Concorde going out of service, a marvel of engineering so far ahead of it's time, and not it's just gone.
From a fuel economy perspective alone, using 4 engines like the Boeing 777 series would be a way to go. The fuselage and tail is also interesting. The 225 was designed to ferry the Soviet Space Shuttle, so there is a lot of structure to support loads that do not exist. This plane was also designed before CAD and FEM software was available. IF you can count the production run on your fingers, CNC machining and 3D printing may be economical because the production run is below the break even point for conventional tooling. A replacement for the 225 would not be a clone, but a clean sheet design. Such a design would include a review of the 225 to see what features were incorporated for the original mission and how that mission has changed. Management is on fairly firm ground for determining that there is no market for certain things any more, but their crystal ball is cloudy when it comes to creating a new market. Building a plane to fulfill too many roles will result in a plane that doesn't excel in any role. That's a very big gamble. Another problem is ground handling. Seaplanes don't have to worry about runway weights, but that would require a whole new cargo handling infrastructure.
I am very glad that you refer to Dmitry Antonov's videos and his statements, because I think he is very familiar with the aircraft and the subject matter.
I am thoroughly enjoying Petters channels. The stories covered are interesting and captivating, covering all important angles. Even the Sponsor choice in his videos is worthwhile information, per se.
He should not do Politics!!!!
This plane carried the first irish flying locomotive the Irish railways class 201 locomotive back in 1994
I've been waiting for this video. Perfect explanation, verified facts, plus the professional storytelling by Petter. As usual on this channel though :) The only fact that makes me a bit upset as well as every other Ukrainian is that Petter has shown the map of Ukraine without Crimea. That was likely unintentional, just a footage found on the Web, but it does matter. No one adequate country in the world recognizes russian Crimea. It is Ukraine. It was, it is, and it will be.
> No one adequate country in the world recognizes russian Crimea. It is Ukraine. It was, it is, and it will be. Because f the people living in Crimea, right? F their opinion! Democracy only when it suits us! Nevermind... No adult person in Crimea gives a isht about what "adequate countries in the world" recognize or not. Crimea was russian, it has always been full of russians, it always spoke russian, and now they're back with their old country - Russia. (BTW even before the invasion UA was significantly worse pretty much in every aspect when compared to Russia.)
I've stood a few times in front of this behemoth when they were in CGN. Every time, it was a spectacular experience. When I heard that it was destroyed, I was really depressed for a few days.
Thank you for finally covering what's with this plane. 😘
As a Ukrainian I would like to say huge thak to you that you made such a great video about Mriya. But there is one thing that upset me. In the video on time 4:58 you have shown map of Ukraine without Krimea. Need to say that Krimea is ukrainian region which was occupied by Russia in 2014 as well as territory of Donbas. Absolutely majority of countries do not recognize Crimea and Donbas as Russian territory and treat those territories as occupied. I would be very thankful to You if You will show Krimea as part of Ukraine in future. BR
Yandex maps probably :)
sorry bro, they seceded. Try not genociding the people next time?
@@user-pt6yh4wp7g whoYandex “maps”
They could finish the other one as a sign of victory. I would love flying in it, even pay extra. You could probably sleep your way to where ever you go with that much size inside. On a different subject, do longhaul pilots wear a seatbelt against turbulence if they are sleeping? 😅
Yes all crew bunks are equipped with seat belts which is mandatory. Very advisable to wear them.
They were having a hard time keeping the one they had operational since 2016, since a lot of parts were made in russia, from the tires to engine parts. Furthermore, the turbofan engines were assembled in Zaporizhzhia which is currently under russian control and on the way to be annexed because it also holds the largest nuclear power plant in europe. At this point they might as well design a new aircraft altogether, using western or chinese parts (i think they were evaluating using pratt and whitney engines for some of their smaller planes).
@@twerkingbollocks6661 Zaporizhzhia city isn't occupied at the moment. Only some parts of Zaporizhzhia region are (including the part where the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is).
I mean, due to the high cost of operating such an enormous aircraft you would have to pay extra, the exact reason why the Concord doesn't fly either, every aviation fan has been yelling 'Id pay extra to fly Concord' but none do once they realize just how much extra they'd have to pay...
@@someguy4915 Actually Concorde does not fly as Airbus withdraw engineerimg support as well as the effect of the 9-11 attacks that meant the first of many downturns over the next few years caused by pandemics etc
We were very happy to see Mriya in Almaty!
I got to see it fly by one time and it was just so improbable looking! What a majestic beast
A six engine high wing jet. I'm going to hazard a guess that it was the only plane of that configuration ever built.
There was a second one, but it was never completed.
Perhaps it should be displayed as it is as a memorial to those lost in a War that Ukraine eventually wins.(fingers crossed). Just my thoughts.
Yes, indeed. It would be an outstanding War Memorial. A really outstanding one.
Russia will win this war and crush the racist nazis that committed genocide on the Russia speaking regions of Ukraine, Donetsk and Lugansk
@@jekafilatov We don´t need this Propaganda here.
I hope they do finish a 225 at some point. I've seen it fly over Toronto and it's mind-boggling to see such a huge thing actually fly.
I personally see two potential paths for the An-225. 1.) Repair/Rebuild using modern systems. Or 2.) Preserve the remains in an aviation museum.
I guess thats Rebuild to running condition or repair for static display.
The world will need a new AN225, it's not a matter of one country only. If the world's biggest economies are really committed about the environment, they are almost obligated to fund the build of the new Myria. Only this aircraft had the payload capacity to carry the main pieces of energy production sites and a lot of these, that uses coal as main source, should be replaced immediately.
Let’s see what happens
What's the real world cargo for these types of planes? I would assume sea shipping is a real competitor? but sea freight is quite slow, And dirty too, when they burn that heavy high sulfer bunker oil out at sea.
I loved this big bird, but I'd personally rather see money going to rebuilding houses and infrastructure once the brutal invaders have been defeated
Yeah, that will Always have yo come first of course.
It would be a long term project, a crown on the work of rebuilding the nation.
The brutal invaders are the racist nazi western Ukrainians that tried to do genocide on the Russian speaking parts of Ukraine as well as stop them from speaking Russian as their language. Russia is doing a great job at defeating them.
I’d like to see the Ukrainian forces who murded thousands in both Donbas and donsek brought to justice let the scam artist Zelenskyy pay for the damage.
Thank you for following up on my posting on this. Much appreciated.
While it's clearly not a primary goal for the Antonov company, it would be sweet to see them rebuild and improve the AN-225. I also wouldn't be surprised if there was an outpouring of support from companies like Lockheed-Martin, Boeing, airbus, or even engine manufacturers like GE Aviation or Rolls-Royce... Can you imagine that thing kitted out with a modded 747-800 avionics and six RB211s? or even Trent 1000s if they were after dropping the fuel consumption even further!! I mean, yes. The thing would still chug JET-A1 faster than I chug tea just spooling up four out of six but compared to its original engines, SURELY the improved efficiency from the even higher bypass ratio would net some decent gains in fuel economy...
With Mriya Ukraine was known as the creators of the largest aircraft in the skies. It would be a shame if after it's destruction Ukraine is to be known only as a "victim of Russian aggression". I hope it can be rebuilt as a symbol of national pride.
Although it would be a morale boost and PR win to rebuild the 225, it's probably better for Antonov to take advantage of the available tech near their new German HQ and build a completely new type. Although impressive, the AN225 is ancient.
Sometimes, it’s all about sending a message
It's not just about the message. The AN-225 fulfilled a specialty heavy-lift role that nobody else could match.
@@BlackEpyon "...nobody else could match." That's a stretch. The AN225 was built to carry space shuttles in the Soviet era. The US had its own plane to carry space shuttles. Boeing, Airbus and western militaries all have heavy lift aircraft. It's an impressive aircraft, but don't fool yourself into believing that nobody could build something as big or bigger, if it were actually needed. Again, one of a kind, and a tragic loss, but Antonov company could accomplish more by building something new and innovative.
@@toothdecay2465 Sure, Boeing, Airbus et al COULD build something bigger, and I never said or implied that they couldn't. But they DIDN'T, did they?
@@BlackEpyon "... COULD...but... didn't..." That doesn't address my point at all. Ironically, it supports it. Look, battleships were large, impressive feats of engineering. But building one now would be ridiculously expensive and it would be obsolete from day one. Better to look to the future.
Thanks, nice video. Seen on 20-5-22 at 21:59 in NL
As much as I’m environmentally conscious, I do think rebuilding the Mriya will be symbolic to the people of Ukraine 🇺🇦 . I actually had tears when I saw the news about Mriya after the bombing - it’s my lifelong dream to see it in person. So sad 😢to see such a gentle giant destroyed. To me, the Mriya is not just a plane ✈️, it is something more. I’d love to see it rebuilt.
Perhaps it could also be rebuilt for display in a museum (then it wouldn't need those electric systems or certification as a new aircraft)?
Ukrainians 🇺🇦 are a strong willed people I think we'll see her/225 again
It was a Soviet plane and it was the dear for the Russian people just as much as the Ukrainians. You make it sound like the An-225 was entirely an Ukrainian plane or Antonov company was (is) entirely a Ukrainian company.
I totally agree with it. The An-225 was built by entire USSR, but primarily by Russians.
It's already confirmed. The Antonov is a Soviet company which has created by a Russian who built the Company on the Ukrainian Socialist Republic(Ukraine SSR) under the control of the USSR where he hired most Ukrainian workers. Why had Antonov hired Ukrainian workers and designers? Probably because he didn't want to have off-site workers. Most important👉 Ukraine has continued to exist for centuries even under the influence of the Russian Empire or the USSR, this is because Ukraine is older than Russia. USSR ≠ Russia
Saw one in Santiago de Chile in 2016 on my arrival from Rapa Nui. Never forget the sight of it as we disembarked from our 787. I wasn't only one getting all giddy up: lot of passenger seemed to know what was the special sight. The ground crew had to usher us into the buses for the transportation to the terminal.
Feedback / Request. I've noticed that in most of your videos the story ends and immediately you're talking about other stuff. I'd really like to see a pause, just a second or two, to pause and digest the subject. Love your work, but to me this is really jarring. 👍👍