Over the course of 12 flights in a row from Chile to Bolivia, Antonov Airlines marked the most consecutive flights of a commercially operated An-225. Twelve heat recovery steam generators weighing 160 metric tons each were delivered for Hansa Meyer Global Transport. The complex operation was carried out with various logistical challenges, requiring a coordinated effort by the Antonov team.

The cargo configuration prohibited loading into the aircraft, leading to the need for a new design. “The lifting points were reworked,” said Andriy Blagovisniy, commercial director for Antonov Airlines. “The amended design, which featured bolted joints, allowed us to remove the lifting points from the cargoes when they were installed on the loading ramp, which in turn reduced the cargo height.”

Upon arrival in Bolivia, Antonov reinstalled the lifting points to their original positions so they could be offloaded via external cranes. “A special low-profile loading system designed by Antonov company specialists was used to handle the large height of the cargo,” said Blagovisniy.

Another hurdle was the weight distribution of the cargo, which exceeded the maximum allowed values for the aircraft. Blagovisniy said special damping panels and reverse bend technology were employed to solve the problem. “Our flight crew received special training that took into account the design features of the cargo to meet the maximum permitted g-forces during takeoff, in flight, and landing.”

The airports in Chile and Bolivia presented another set of challenging considerations for Antonov. Chimore Airport in Bolivia does not support nighttime operations, restricting the unloading process to daytime hours only. Antonov also brought its own towing tractor from Ukraine to Chile due to a lack of a tractor with suitable power at Iquique Diego Aracena Airport.

“This project saw the highest level of expertise and coordination between personnel of all partners participating in the An-225 operation and unloading of the aircraft, allowing flights to keep to our tight schedules,” said Blagovisniy. “All parties involved in this multinational project have gained invaluable experience in providing logistics solutions using the An-225, laying the groundwork for fruitful cooperation in the future.”