View Full Version : Antonov 124 crossing the pond 230708
kernowbird
24th Jul 2008, 09:08
I've tried my usual sources to identify the Volga-Dnepr AN-124 that routed over Cornwall to Gapli at 1055 yesterday. He/she was VDA9540 I believe. Any ideas on which one?
I note two An-124s left Farnborough on 22nd, so was it taking bits of "show aeroplane" back to the States?
They were UR82072 and RA82078 @ FAB both taking Helo's back to India:ok:
Veeps
kernowbird
25th Jul 2008, 11:22
Farnborough to India via Lands End? Probably not.
TOWTEAMBASE
25th Jul 2008, 11:35
both dropped into STN on a tech stop
kernowbird
31st Jul 2008, 10:33
Another westbound AN-124 seen at 1030 on Sunday 27th July. This one was VDA 9452 RA-82042. Getting to be a common sight.
Interesting thought if they need to tech stop in Stanstead for fuel, whether Newquay would be an attractive alternative when it goes civy. Bags of runway and in the right direction for the Atlantic crossing
AircraftOperations
31st Jul 2008, 14:56
They stopped at Stansted because:
a) They were going from Farnborough (short rwy) to India, so STN was in roughly the right direction.
b) Several Antonov operators have good links with STN and can obtain very good handling/fuel rates I believe.
Is Newquay equipped to handle such a large aircraft in terms of infrastructure and equipment?
Can't see any operators needing to drop in there for fuel when going Westbound. EMA/STN/PIK are the usual civil UK airports used, plus Shannon and the Spanish/Portugese Atlantic Islands if required.