Antonov An-124 Ruslan

During the 1970s, the Military Transport Aviation Command (Komandovaniye voyenno-transportnoy aviatsii or VTA) arm of the Soviet Air Forces had a shortfall in strategic heavy airlift capacity. Its largest aircraft consisted of about 50 Antonov An-22 turboprops, which were used heavily for tactical roles. A declassified 1975 CIA analysis concluded that the USSR did "...not match the US in ability to provide long-range heavy lift support."{{cite web |url= http://www.foia.cia.gov/docs/DOC_0000283806/DOC_0000283806.pdf |title= Trends in Soviet Military Programs |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120531114623/http://www.foia.cia.gov/docs/DOC_0000283806/DOC_0000283806.pdf |archive-date= 31 May 2012 |date= October 1976 |quote = originally Top Secret |publisher= Central Intelligence Agency}} Soviet officials sought not only additional airlifters, a substantial increase in payload capacity was also desirable so that the same task could be completed with fewer trips.

File:Polet Antonov An-124 cockpit Pashnin.jpg An-124 cockpit]]

In 1971, design work on the project commenced at the Antonov Design Bureau; the lead designer of the An-124 (and the enlarged An-225 derivative) was Viktor Tolmachev.{{cite web |url= http://www.volga-dnepr.com/en/press-center/news/3314/ |title= Volga-Dnepr Group Celebrates 80th Birthday of Legendary Chief Designer of the An-124 and An-225 Transport Aircraft |publisher= Volga-dnepr.com |date= 24 December 1982 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180612143257/http://www.volga-dnepr.com/en/press-center/news/3314/ |archive-date= 12 June 2018 |url-status= live}} During development, it was known as Izdeliye 400 (Product #400) in house, and An-40 in the West. The design produced broadly resembled the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, an American strategic airlifter, but also incorporated numerous improvements, the greater use of carbon-fibre composites in its construction (comprising around 5% of the aircraft's total weight) and the more extensive use of titanium being amongst these benefits. Aluminium alloys make up the primary material used in its construction, limited use of steel and titanium alloys were also made. Unlike the C-5, it lacks a fully-pressurised cargo bay or the ability to receive fuel in-flight.Fricker 1990, pp. 57-78.

In 1973, the construction of the necessary facilities to produce the new airlifter began. Two separate final assembly lines plants were established to produce the airlifter: the company Aviastar-SP (ex. Ulyanovsk Aviation Industrial Complex) in Ulyanovsk, Russia and by the Kyiv Aviation Plant AVIANT, in Ukraine. Furthermore, the programme used components, systems, and various other elements drawn from in excess of 100 factories across the Eastern world. In 1979, manufacturing activity on the first airframe began.{{cite web |url= http://www.antonov.com/news/index.xml?mask=200712 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110806162132/http://www.antonov.com/news/index.xml?mask=200712 |archive-date=2011-08-06|title= Era of Ruslan: 25 years |publisher= Antonov |access-date= 6 November 2011}}

On 24 December 1982, the type performed its maiden flight. Three years later, the An-124 made its first appearance in the Western world when an example was displayed at the 1985 Paris Air Show.{{cite web |url= http://www.foia.cia.gov/docs/DOC_0000499612/DOC_0000499612.pdf |title= The Condor: A New Soviet Heavy Transport |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120531114701/http://www.foia.cia.gov/docs/DOC_0000499612/DOC_0000499612.pdf |archive-date= 31 May 2012 |quote= originally classified Secret |date= 1986 |publisher= Central Intelligence Agency}} Following the fall of the Soviet Union, commercial operations of the An-124 became an increasingly important area of activity; to this end, civil certification was sought for the type by Antonov; this was issued on 30 December 1992.E. Gordon, Antonov's Heavy Transports, Midland Publishing. {{page needed|date=November 2022}}

Sales of the An-124 to various commercial operators proceeded throughout the 1990s and into the mid 2000s; many of these were former military aircraft that were refurbished by Antonov prior to delivery, or unfinished fuselages that had been preserved, rather than producing new-build aircraft.{{cite web |url= http://www.casr.ca/id-antonov-costs.htm |title= Strategic Airlifters: a Comprehensive Comparison between the Boeing C-17 and the Antonov An-124-100 |first= Herman A. |last= Kurapov |publisher= casr.ca |date= April 2006 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090111014326/http://www.casr.ca/id-antonov-costs.htm |archive-date= 11 January 2009}} During the early 2000s, the cargo operator Volga-Dnepr opted to upgrade its An-124 freighter fleet, these works included engine modifications to conform with chapter four noise regulations, various structural improvements that increased service life, and numerous avionics and systems changes to facilitate four person operations, reducing the crew needed from six or seven.

During April 2008, it was announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to resume the production of the An-124 in the third quarter of 2008.{{cite news |title= Ukraine, Russia to resume production of giant cargo planes |url= https://www.forbes.com/markets/feeds/afx/2008/04/28/afx4941659.html |access-date= 28 April 2008 |work= Forbes |agency= Thomson Financial |date= 28 April 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080830060946/http://www.forbes.com/markets/feeds/afx/2008/04/28/afx4941659.html |archive-date= 30 August 2008 |location= Kyiv}} One month later, a new variant — the An-124-150 — was announced; it featured several improvements, including a maximum lift capacity of 150 tonnes.{{cite news |last1= Taverna |first1= Michael A. |title= Russia, Ukraine Near Deal on Relaunch of Modernized An-124 |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_airshow.jsp?channel=busav&id=news/AN05298.xml&show=ila08b |access-date= 16 August 2008 |publisher= Aviation Week |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110521061729/http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_airshow.jsp?channel=busav&id=news%2FAN05298.xml&show=ila08b |archive-date= 21 May 2011 |location= Berlin, Germany |url-status= dead}} However, in May 2009, Antonov's partner, the Russian United Aircraft Corporation announced it did not plan to produce any An-124s in the period 2009–2012.{{cite news |last= Kingsley-Jones |first= Max |title= Superjet the biggest casualty as Russia slashes airliner output plans |publisher= Flightglobal |date= 7 May 2009 |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/05/07/326086/superjet-the-biggest-casualty-as-russia-slashes-airliner-output.html |access-date= 9 May 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090510012447/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/05/07/326086/superjet-the-biggest-casualty-as-russia-slashes-airliner-output.html |archive-date= 10 May 2009}} During late 2009, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev ordered production of the aircraft resumed; at this point, Russia was expected to procure 20 new-build An-124s.{{cite web |last= Maternovsky |first= Dennis |url= https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=a0f9JETD2xHw |title= Russia to Resume Making World's Largest Plane, Kommersant Says |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151019042528/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=a0f9JETD2xHw |archive-date= 19 October 2015 |publisher= Bloomberg |date= 24 December 2009}}{{cite web |url= http://www.ruaviation.com/docs/3/2011/3/18/26/print/ |title = (Archived copy) |access-date= 6 February 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140923081205/http://www.ruaviation.com/docs/3/2011/3/18/26/print |archive-date= 23 September 2014 |url-status= live}} In August 2014, Jane's reported that, Russian Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Yuri Slusar announced that production of the An-124 had been stopped as a consequence of the ongoing political tensions between Russia and Ukraine.{{cite web |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150528061607/http://www.janes.com/article/42194/update-time-called-on-an-124-production-re-start |url= http://www.janes.com/article/42194/update-time-called-on-an-124-production-re-start |archive-date=2015-05-28|title= UPDATE: Time called on An-124 production re-start |publisher= IHS Jane's Defence Industry |access-date= 5 May 2015}}

In late 2017, multiple An-124s were upgraded by the Aviastar-SP plant in Ulyanovsk, Russia, three of which were reportedly scheduled to return to flight during the following year.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020}} As Russia–Ukraine relations continued to sour, Antonov begun to source new suppliers while also pushing to westernize the An-124. During 2018, the American engine manufacturer GE Aviation was studying reengining it with CF6s for CargoLogicAir, a Volga-Dnepr subsidiary. It was believed that this would likely provide a range increase; as Volga-Dnepr Group operated 12 aircraft, the change would imply purchasing between 50 and 60 engines with spares.{{cite news |url= http://aviationweek.com/propulsion/freighter-growth-and-possible-124-reengining-boost-cf6-prospects#comment-1081811 |title= Freighter Growth And Possible An-124 Reengining Boost CF6 Prospects |date= 10 October 2018 |first= Guy |last= Norris |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology}} The Russian engine specialist Aviadvigatel also indicated that a further development of its PD-14, which was intended for use on an upgraded model of the Russian-manufactured An-124, designated PD-35, generated 50% more power than the present Ukrainian Progress D-18T engines.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}

During January 2019, Antonov revealed its plans to restart production of the An-124 without support from Russia.{{cite web |url= http://airlinerwatch.com/antonov-resumes-the-production-of-an-124-ruslan-without-russia/ |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191118162536/https://airlinerwatch.com/antonov-resumes-the-production-of-an-124-ruslan-without-russia/ |url-status= dead |archive-date= 18 November 2019 |title=Antonov resumes the production of An-124 Ruslan without Russia |date= 16 January 2019 |website= Airlinerwatch |access-date= 16 January 2019}}

At MAKS Air Show in 2017, the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) announced its An-124-102 Slon (Elephant) design to replace the similar An-124-100. The design was detailed in January 2019 before wind tunnel testing scheduled for August–September. It is intended to be produced at the Aviastar-SP factory in Ulyanovsk. It should transport {{cvt|150|t|lb}} over {{cvt|3,800|nmi|km}} (up from {{cvt|1,675|nmi|km||disp=comma}}), or {{cvt|180|t|lb}} over {{cvt|2,650|nmi|km}} at {{cvt|460|kn|km/h}}. The Russian MoD wants a range of {{cvt|4,100|nmi|km}} with five Sprut-SDM-1 light tanks and their 100 crew, or 300 armed soldiers.

The planned An-124-102 is larger at 82.3 m (270 ft) long from {{cvt|227|ft|order=flip}}, with an {{cvt|286-290|ft|order=flip}} span versus {{cvt|240.5|ft|order=flip}} and {{cvt|78.7|ft|order=flip}} high compared with {{cvt|68.9|ft|order=flip}}.{{cite web |url= https://thaimilitaryandasianregion.wordpress.com/2018/05/13/an-124-ruslan-condor-large-cargo-aircraft/ |title= An-124 Ruslan (Condor) Large Cargo Aircraft |date= 12 May 2018}} A new higher aspect ratio, composite wing and a {{cvt|214-222|t|lb}} airframe would allow a {{cvt|490-500|t|lb}} gross weight. It should be powered by Russian PD-35s developed for the CR929 widebody, producing {{cvt|35|tf|lbf}} up from {{cvt|23|tf|lbf}}. Two fuselages are planned, one for Volga-Dnepr with a width of {{cvt|17.4|ft|m|order=flip}} from the An-124's {{cvt|14.4|ft|m|order=flip}}, and one for the Russian MoD of {{cvt|21|ft|m|order=flip}} wide to carry vehicles in two lines.{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-02-04/124-ruslan-replacement-takes-shape |title= An-124 Ruslan Replacement Takes Shape |first= Vladimir |last= Karnozov |date= 4 February 2019 |work= AIN online |access-date= 5 February 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190206131830/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-02-04/124-ruslan-replacement-takes-shape |archive-date= 6 February 2019 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}}

On 5 November 2019, the TsAGI released pictures of a {{cvt|1.63|m}} long and {{cvt|1.75|m}} wide model, ahead of windtunnel testing.{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-windtunnel-beckons-for-an-124-successor-462006/ |title= Windtunnel beckons for An-124 successor |date= 5 November 2019 |first= David |last= Kaminski-Morrow |work= Flightglobal |access-date= 6 November 2019 |archive-date= 6 November 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191106162457/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-windtunnel-beckons-for-an-124-successor-462006/ |url-status= live}}{{cite web |url= http://www.tsagi.ru/pressroom/news/4582/ |title= В ЦАГИ изготовлена аэродинамическая модель большегрузного транспортного самолета "Слон" |publisher= Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute |date= 5 November 2019 |access-date= 6 November 2019}}{{cite web |last= Rogoway |first= Tyler |url= https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/30852/russia-shows-wind-tunnel-model-of-an-elephant-airlifter-replacement-for-the-an-124 |title= Russia Shows Wind Tunnel Model Of An "Elephant" Airlifter Replacement For The An-124 |website= The Drive |date= 5 November 2019|access-date= 6 November 2019}} On 26 March 2020, TsAGI released new pictures of a wind tunnel model, announcing that the researchers of the Institute had completed the first cycle of aerodynamic testing; the results confirmed the characteristics laid down during preliminary studies.{{cite web |url= http://www.tsagi.ru/pressroom/news/4781/ |title= В ЦАГИ прошли испытания модели самолета "Слон" - Новости - Пресс-центр - ЦАГИ}}

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The Antonov An-124 Ruslan is a large, strategic airlift, four-engined aircraft. An aircraft with a similar role, it externally bears numerous similarities to the American Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, having a double fuselage to allow for a rear cargo door (on the lower fuselage) that can open in flight without affecting structural integrity, as well as the arrangement of flight control surfaces, such as the slats, flaps, and spoilers, resembling the layout of the C-5.{{cite web |url= http://www.radiobergen.org/russia/antonov.htm |title= Air Force Technology - Air Force Technology - An-124 Condor - Long Range Heavy Transport Aircraft |access-date= 6 February 2015 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150207032458/http://www.radiobergen.org/russia/antonov.htm |archive-date= 7 February 2015}} The An-124 has a slightly shorter fuselage, has a slightly greater wingspan, and is capable of carrying a 17 percent larger payload. In place of the C-5's T-tail, the An-124 is furnished with a conventional empennage, similar in design to that of the Boeing 747. The An-124 features a fly-by-wire control system. This is a hybrid control system, as it also implements conventional mechanical controls for some aspects; these have been arranged in a manner that provides redundancy against the failure of a single hydraulic circuit.

A single An-124 is capable of carrying up to {{convert|150|t}} of cargo internally in a standard military configuration; it can also carry 88 passengers in an upper deck behind the wing centre section. The forward area of this upper deck is where the flight deck and the crew area accommodated; movement between the upper and lower decks is via a pair of foldable internal ladders. The cargo compartment of the An-124 is {{convert|36|*|6.4|*|4.4|m|abbr=on}}, ca. 20% larger than the main cargo compartment of the C-5 Galaxy, which is {{convert|36.91|*|5.79|*|4.09|m|abbr=on}}. Largely due to the limited pressurisation of its main cargo compartment (24.6 kPa, 3.57 psi),Antonov's Heavy Transports. Midland Publishing. {{page needed|date=November 2022}}Fricker 1990, p. 78. the airlifter has seldom been used to deploy paratroopers or to carry passengers, as they would typically require oxygen masks and cold-weather clothing in such conditions.{{cite web |url= http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/row/fwair.htm |title= Fixed-Wing Aircraft |work= Federation of American Scientists Military Analysis Network |last= Phillips |first= W. Scott |date= 31 August 1999 |access-date= 22 February 2006 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060227045642/http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/row/fwair.htm |archive-date= 27 February 2006 |url-status= live}} In comparison, the upper deck is fully pressurised. The floor of the cargo deck is entirely composed of titanium, a measure that is usually prohibited by the material cost. It is suitable for carrying almost any heavy vehicle, including multiple main battle tanks.

The An-124 is powered by four Lotarev D-18 turbofan engines, each capable of generating up to 238–250 kN of thrust. To reduce the landing distance required, thrust reversers are present. Pilots have stated that the airlifter is relatively light on the controls and is easy to handle for an aircraft of its size.{{cite web |url= http://www.tsb.gc.ca/eng/rapports-reports/aviation/2000/a00o0279/a00o0279.asp |title= AVIATION Reports – 2000 – A00O0279 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131017093317/http://www.tsb.gc.ca/eng/rapports-reports/aviation/2000/a00o0279/a00o0279.asp |archive-date= 17 October 2013 |publisher= Transportation Safety Board of Canada |date = 31 July 2008 |access-date= 24 April 2012 |quote= The AN124 has been described by training personnel and pilots as being very easy to handle for an aircraft of its size. The AN124 tends to be very light on the controls}} A pair of TA18-200-124 auxiliary power units (APUs) are accommodated within the main landing gear fairings. As a consequence of the heat and blast effects produced by these APUs, some airports require pavement protection to be deployed.{{cite web |last= Nielsen |first= Erik |title= Copenhagen Airport, Use of auxiliary power unit (APU) |url= http://www.boeing.com/commercial/noise/copenhagen.html#apu |publisher= Copenhagen Airport / Boeing |access-date= 22 January 2013 |page= 6.5 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130509130529/http://www.boeing.com/commercial/noise/copenhagen.html |archive-date= 9 May 2013}} The landing gear of the An-124 is outfitted with an oleo strut suspension system for its 24 wheels. This suspension has been calibrated to allow for landing on rough terrain and is able to kneel, which allows for easier loading and unloading via the front cargo door. Other features intended to ease loading including an onboard overhead crane in the cargo deck, capable of lifting up to 30 tonnes, while items up to 120 tonnes can be winched on board.{{cite web |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090511184037/http://www.ruslanint.com/Technical?ID=58 |archive-date=2009-05-11|url= http://www.ruslanint.com/Technical?ID=58 |title= An124-100 technical specification |publisher= Ruslan International |access-date = 24 July 2010}} Two separate radar units are typically present, one is intended for ground mapping and navigation purposes, while the other is for weather.

File:KSC-20200519-PH-KLS01 0051~orig.jpg rocket main stage]]

During the 2000s, Germany headed an initiative to lease An-124s for NATO strategic airlift requirements. Two aircraft were leased from SALIS GmbH as a stopgap until the Airbus A400M became available.{{cite news |title= Strategic airlift agreement enters into force |work= NATO Update |date= 23 March 2006 |url= http://www.nato.int/docu/update/2006/03-march/e0323a.htm |access-date= 7 April 2006 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060407102615/http://www.nato.int/docu/update/2006/03-march/e0323a.htm |archive-date= 7 April 2006 |url-status= live}} Under NATO SALIS programme NAMSA is chartering six An-124-100 transport aircraft. According to the contract An-124-100s of Antonov Airlines and Volga-Dnepr are used within the limits of NATO SALIS programme to transport cargo by requests of 18 countries: Belgium, Hungary, Greece, Denmark, Canada, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, United Kingdom, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, France, Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden. Two An-124-100s are constantly based on full-time charter in the Leipzig/Halle airport, but the contract specifies that if necessary, two more aircraft will be provided at six days' notice and another two at nine days' notice.{{cite web |url= http://www.nato.int/issues/strategic-lift-air/index.html |title= Strategic Airlift Interim Solution (SALIS) |publisher= NATO |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090509120747/http://www.nato.int/issues/strategic-lift-air/index.html |archive-date=9 May 2009}} The aircraft proved extremely useful for NATO especially with operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.{{cite web |url= http://www.deagel.com/news/Antonov-An-124-NATO-SALIS-Program-Extended-Through-End-of-2010_n000005519.aspx |title= Antonov An-124 NATO SALIS Program Extended Through End of 2010 |publisher= deagel.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120923040037/http://www.deagel.com/news/Antonov-An-124-NATO-SALIS-Program-Extended-Through-End-of-2010_n000005519.aspx |archive-date= 23 September 2012}}

File:Loading ramp of an An-124.jpg

United Launch Alliance (ULA) contracts the An-124 to transport the Atlas V launch vehicle from its facilities in Decatur, Alabama to Cape Canaveral. ULA also uses the An-124 to transport the Atlas V launch vehicle and Centaur upper stage from their manufacturing facility in Denver, Colorado to Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Space Force Base.{{cite web |url= http://www.spaceflightnow.com/news/n0606/26megamovers |title= Lockheed Martin Atlas rocket |publisher= The History Channel |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100416001322/http://www.spaceflightnow.com/news/n0606/26megamovers/ |archive-date= 16 April 2010}} Two flights are required to transfer each launch vehicle (one for the Atlas V main booster stage and another for the Centaur upper stage).{{cite web |url= http://www.ilslaunch.com/node/518 |title= Lockheed Martin Delivers Atlas V to Cape Canaveral for NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170425204447/http://www.ilslaunch.com/node/518 |archive-date= 25 April 2017 |publisher= Ilslaunch |date= 4 April 2005}} It is also contracted by Space Systems Loral to transport satellites from Palo Alto, CA to the Arianespace spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana{{cite web |url= http://www.loral.com/inthenews/050609.html |title= Space Systems/Loral Delivers World'S Largest Satellite To Launch Base |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080309203801/http://www.loral.com/inthenews/050609.html |archive-date= 9 March 2008}} and by SpaceX to transport payload fairings between their factory in Hawthorne, California and Cape Canaveral.{{cite news |title= Ukraine's Antonov helps SpaceX transport rocket hardware |url= https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/2380337-ukraines-antonov-helps-spacex-transport-rocket-hardware.html |access-date= 11 January 2018 |publisher= Ukrinform |language= en |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180112042542/https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/2380337-ukraines-antonov-helps-spacex-transport-rocket-hardware.html |archive-date= 12 January 2018 |url-status= live}}

By 2013, the An-124 had reportedly visited 768 airports in over 100 countries.{{cite web |url= http://www.antonov.com/aircraft/30-years-since-the-an-124-ruslan?lang=en |title= 30 years since the AN-124 Ruslan maiden take-of |publisher= Antonov.com |access-date= 21 June 2013 |url-status= bot: unknown |archive-url= https://timetravel.mementoweb.org/memento/2011/http://www.antonov.com/aircraft/30-years-since-the-an-124-ruslan?lang=en |archive-date= 22 January 2018}}

By late 2020, three civil operators of the An-124 remained. Antonov Airlines with seven aircraft, Volga-Dnepr Airlines with 12, and Maximus Air Cargo with one. In November 2020, Volga-Dnepr reported that it was indefinitely grounding its fleet of An-124 aircraft to inspect the 60 engines (including spares) following the 13 November 2020 unconfined engine failure at Novosibirsk.{{cite web |last= Lennane |first= Alex |date= 25 November 2020|title= 'Safety first' as Volga-Dnepr grounds its AN-124 fleet indefinitely |url= https://theloadstar.com/exclusive-safety-first-as-volga-dnepr-grounds-its-an-124-fleet-indefinitely/ |access-date= 26 November 2020 |website= The Loadstar}} As of 29 December 2020, the first Volga-Dnepr An-124-100 was back in service.

File:US Navy 040429-N-7949W-001 The Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Mystic (DSRV 1) is carefully loaded onto a Russian-built An-124 Condor (Antonov).jpg "Mystic" being loaded at Naval Air Station North Island, California, United States]]

• In May 1987, an An-124 set a world record, covering the distance of {{convert|20151|km|nmi|0|abbr=on}} without refuelling.{{cite web |url= http://www.arms-expo.ru/site.xp/049049056057124050049049054.html |title= Оружие России; Ан-124 "Руслан" (Condor), дальний тяжелый военно-транспортный самолет |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090603123311/http://www.arms-expo.ru/site.xp/049049056057124050049049054.html |archive-date= 3 June 2009}} The flight took 25 hours and 30 minutes; the takeoff weight was 455,000 kg.{{Citation needed|date=November 2013}}
• In July 1985, an An-124 carried 171,219 kg (377,473 lb) of cargo to an altitude of {{convert|2000|m|ft|abbr=on}} and 170,000 kg to an altitude of 10,750 m (35,270 ft).{{cite web |url= http://www.nkau.gov.ua/gateway/news.nsf/NewsALLR/005BFF2F07D47EF4C3256B7200284D01!open |title= Аэрокосмическое общество Украины; Международная авиационная федерация зарегистрировала 124 мировых рекорда, установленных на самолёте Ан-225 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120220131222/http://www.nkau.gov.ua/gateway/news.nsf/NewsALLR/005BFF2F07D47EF4C3256B7200284D01%21open |archive-date= 20 February 2012}}
• In June 1994, an An-124 flew the first IE 201 Class diesel-electric locomotive from the General Motors Diesel works in London, Ontario, Canada to Dublin, Ireland for clearance testing and crew training, before subsequent units were delivered by ship.{{Cite news |title= Locomotive Makes Aviation History |url= https://www.joc.com/economy-watch/locomotive-makes-aviation-history_19940731.html |magazine= Journal of Commerce |date= 31 July 1994 |access-date= 15 February 2022 |archive-date= 20 June 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210620220331/https://www.joc.com/economy-watch/locomotive-makes-aviation-history_19940731.html |url-status= dead}}
• An An-124 was used to transport the Obelisk of Axum back to its native homeland of Ethiopia from Rome in April 2005.{{Cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/4458105.stm |publisher= BBC News |title= Obelisk arrives back in Ethiopia |date= 19 April 2005 |access-date= 2 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090930122131/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/4458105.stm |archive-date= 30 September 2009 |url-status= live}}
• An An-124 was used to transport an EP-3E Aries II electronic intelligence aircraft from Hainan Island, China on 4 July 2001 following the Hainan Island incident.{{citation needed|date=April 2022}}
• An An-124 was used to transport the first Bombardier Movia-series railcar for the Delhi Metro on 26 February 2009.{{cite web |title= Delhi Metro's first rake to be airlifted was carried on a Ukraine-made aircraft |url= https://www.businesstoday.in/trending/story/delhi-metros-first-rake-to-be-airlifted-was-carried-on-a-ukraine-made-aircraft-323581-2022-02-23 |website= Business Today |date= 23 February 2022 |access-date= 1 March 2022 |language= en}}
• In July 2010, an An-124 was used to transport four 35-foot and three 21-foot skimmer boats from France to the US to assist with the clean-up of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.{{cite web|url= http://www.eft.com/freight-transport/chapman-freeborn-delivers-skimmer-boats-gulf-mexico |title= Chapman Freeborn delivers skimmer boats to Gulf of Mexico | eft - Supply Chain & Logistics Business Intelligence |access-date= 2 April 2014 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140407061612/http://www.eft.com/freight-transport/chapman-freeborn-delivers-skimmer-boats-gulf-mexico |archive-date= 7 April 2014}}
• An An-124 was used in April 2011 to airlift a large Putzmeister concrete pump from Germany to Japan to help cool reactors damaged in the Fukushima nuclear accident.{{cite web |archive-url= https://archive.today/20130129063748/http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/europe/news/article_1629892.php |archive-date=2013-01-29|url= http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/europe/news/article_1629892.php |title= Germany sends giant pump to help cool Fukushima reactor |publisher= monstersandcritics.com}} The An-225 was used to transport an even larger Putzmeister concrete pump to Japan from the US.{{cite web |url= http://chronicle.augusta.com/latest-news/2011-03-31/srs-concrete-pump-heading-japan-nuclear-site |title= SRS pump will head to Japan |access-date= 2 April 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110720193714/http://chronicle.augusta.com/latest-news/2011-03-31/srs-concrete-pump-heading-japan-nuclear-site |archive-date= 20 July 2011 |url-status= live}}
• An An-124 was used in May 2018 to transport an 87,000 lb die tool from Eaton Rapids, Michigan, US to Nottingham, England to restart Ford F-150 production after a fire in the Eaton Rapids Magnesium Casting Facility.{{cite web |url= https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2018/05/16/ford-launched-international-airlift-restart-f-150/617196002/ |title= Ford's plan to rescue F-150: Drama worthy of a James Bond script |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180517082210/https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2018/05/16/ford-launched-international-airlift-restart-f-150/617196002/ |archive-date= 17 May 2018 |publisher= Detroit Free Press}}
• Several An-124s were used by the German Bundeswehr to airlift military equipment from Mazar-i-Sharif to Leipzig during the 2021 German troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. Among the equipment were two NH-90 helicopters.{{cite web|date= 2021-05-18|title= Bundeswehrabzug kommt in Schwung: An-124 holt NH90 aus Afghanistan|url= https://www.flugrevue.de/bundeswehrabzug-kommt-in-schwung-an-124-holt-nh90-aus-afghanistan/|access-date= 2021-05-20|website= www.flugrevue.de|language= de}}{{Citation |title= Abzug aus Afghanistan – Die heiße Phase hat begonnen I Bundeswehr | date=19 May 2021 |url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3pXMYLJlR0 |archive-url= https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211212/-3pXMYLJlR0 |archive-date= 12 December 2021 |url-status= live |language= en |access-date= 20 May 2021}}{{cbignore}}
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, several An-124s were used to cargo masks and other medical equipment from China to foreign countries. For example, Terio International Inc. dispatched their first one on June 7, 2020 between Nanjing and Montréal, which was done as a direct flight.{{cite book |last1= Élise |first1= Paradis |last2= Thériault |first2= Vincent |last3= Thériault |first3= François |date= November 2021 |title= Made-To-Deliver: An inspiring entrepreneurial story of boldness and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic |edition= 1st |publisher= Self-Published |location= Quebec, Canada |isbn= 979-8-4824-0659-5 |pages =}}{{cite news |last= Gagné |first= Louis|date= 16 November 2021 |title= " Tailler sa place " : récit d'une réussite entrepreneuriale en contexte pandémique|url= https://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1840110/tailler-sa-place-surmesure-equipements-protection-individuelle-pandemie |work= Radio Canada |access-date= 3 April 2022}}
• On 24 February 2022, an An-124 with registration number UR-82009 was confirmed to be destroyed by Russian artillery during the Battle of Antonov Airport, Kyiv.{{cite web |date= 27 February 2022 |title= Antonov's sources claim that the world's largest aircraft An-225 Mriya was destroyed |url= https://www.sproutwired.com/antonovs-sources-claim-that-the-worlds-largest-aircraft-an-225-mriya-was-destroyed/ |website= sproutwired.com |access-date= 25 March 2022}} Five other Ukrainian An-124s were diverted to Leipzig at the conclusion of their commercial flights.{{cite web |last1= Ponomarenko |first1= Illia |author-link=Illia Ponomarenko |title= Chief pilot of destroyed An-225: 'We must complete the second Mriya' |url= https://kyivindependent.com/national/chief-pilot-of-destroyed-an-225-we-must-complete-the-second-mriya/ |website= The Kyiv Independent |access-date= 15 April 2022 |date= 15 April 2022}}
• On 3 March 2023, an An-124 delivered 101 tons of humanitarian aid for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria.{{cite web |url=https://global.espreso.tv/ukrainian-aircraft-delivers-101-tons-of-humanitarian-aid-to-turkey-for-earthquake-victims |title=Ukrainian aircraft delivers 101 tons of humanitarian aid to Turkey for earthquake victims |last= |first= |publisher=Espreso TV |date= 3 March 2023 |access-date= 22 April 2023}}{{Cite web |title=Antonov An-124 delivered 101 tons of humanitarian aid to earthquake-raged Türkiye |url=https://twitter.com/39_ABW/status/1631600955920719873 |author=39th Air Base Wing |website=twitter.com |language=|date=3 Mar 2023 |access-date=22 April 2023}}
• On 9 June 2023, an An-124 was seized by Canadian government authorities at Toronto Pearson Airport. It had been stranded following closure of Canadian airspace to Russian air navigation.{{cite web |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2023/06/government-of-canada-orders-seizure-of-russian-registered-cargo-aircraft-at-toronto-pearson-airport.html |title=Government of Canada orders seizure of Russian-registered cargo aircraft at Toronto Pearson Airport |date=10 June 2023 |publisher=Global Affairs Canada}}

File:Volga-Dnepr Antonov An-124-100M-150 and Cubana Ilyushin Il-96-300.jpg Antonov An-124-100M-150 with nose door open at MAKS 2005, Moscow – Zhukovskiy; Cubana de Aviación Ilyushin Il-96 in background]]

;An-124 Ruslan

:Strategic heavy airlift transport aircraft

;An-124-100

:Commercial transport aircraft

;An-124-100M-150

:Version with a payload increased to 150 tonnes (maximum take-off weight 420 tonnes), with uprated Lotarev D-18T series 4 engines; one An-124-100 converted{{cite web |title= [Actu] Les Antonov An-124-100 en Russie |url= https://redsamovar.com/2020/04/04/actu-les-an-124-100-en-russie/ |website= Red Samovar |date= 4 April 2020}}

;An-124-102 Slon

:Commercial transport version with an EFIS flight deck, developed by TsAGi

;An-124-115M

:Planned new variant with EFIS based on Rockwell Collins avionic parts

;An-124-130

:Proposed version

;An-124-135

:Variant with one seat in the rear and the rest of the cargo area (approx. 1,800 square feet) dedicated to freight

;An-124-200

:Proposed version with General Electric CF6-80C2 engines, each rated at 59,200 lbf (263 kN)

;An-124-210

:Joint proposal with Air Foyle to meet UK's Short Term Strategic Airlifter (STSA) requirement, with Rolls-Royce RB211-524H-T engines, each rated 60,600 lbf (264 kN) and Honeywell avionics—STSA competition abandoned in August 1999, reinstated, and won by the Boeing C-17A.

;An-124-300

:The -300 is planned variant with upgraded engines with higher thrust. Variant was ordered by the Russian Aerospace Forces in 2020.{{cite web | url=https://zvezdaweekly.ru/news/202011161330-mKqdi.html | title=Возвращение "Руслана" с "гражданки" }}

File:An-124 RA-82028 in formation with Su-27 09-May-2010.jpg An-124 inflight with two Sukhoi Su-27s of the Falcons of Russia at the 2010 Moscow Victory Day Parade]]

; {{RUS}}

• Russian Aerospace Forces – 12 in service, 14 in reserve.{{cite web |url= https://russianplanes.net/planelist/Antonov/An-124 |title= Антонов Ан-124 |website= russianplanes.net |access-date= 13 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190326051849/https://russianplanes.net/planelist/Antonov/An-124 |archive-date= 26 March 2019 |url-status= live}} In 2008, a contract was signed with Aviastar-SP for modernization of 10 aircraft by 2015.{{cite web |url= http://bmpd.livejournal.com/516420.html |title= Петр Бутовски об Ан-124 "Руслан" |trans-title= Peter Butovskaya about AN-124 "Ruslan" |publisher= bmpd.livejournal.com |date= 9 May 2013 |language= ru |access-date= 14 January 2019 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131116032614/http://bmpd.livejournal.com/516420.html |archive-date= 16 November 2013}} As of December 2019, at least 11 aircraft were modernized. 2 on order.{{cite web |url= http://armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2014/1124/135026738/detail.shtml |title= "Авиастар-СП" успешно выполнил гособоронзаказ на модернизацию шести самолетов Ан-124-100 "Руслан" |website= armstrade.org |date= 24 November 2014 |access-date= 14 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150105132925/http://armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2014/1124/135026738/detail.shtml|archive-date= 5 January 2015|url-status= live}}{{cite web |url= https://engineeringrussia.wordpress.com/2015/07/13/modernization-of-another-an-124-100-ruslan-completed/ |title= Modernization of another An-124-100 "Ruslan" completed |website= engineeringrussia.wordpress.com |date= 13 July 2015 |access-date= 14 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190114044609/https://engineeringrussia.wordpress.com/2015/07/13/modernization-of-another-an-124-100-ruslan-completed/ |archive-date= 14 January 2019 |url-status= live}}{{cite web |url= http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2017/1221/102044709/detail.shtml|title= Именной Ан-124-100 "Руслан" "Олег Антонов" совершил ознакомительный полет после модернизации |publisher= armstrade.org |date= 21 December 2017 |access-date= 14 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20181124220332/http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2017/1221/102044709/detail.shtml |archive-date= 24 November 2018 |url-status= dead}}{{cite web |url= http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/0614/102552843/detail.shtml |title= ЦАМТО / Новости / "Авиастар-СП" продлил ресурс летной годности и передал в эксплуатацию самолет Ан-124-100 "Руслан" |access-date= 16 June 2019 |archive-date= 16 June 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190616093752/http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/0614/102552843/detail.shtml |url-status= live}}{{cite web |url= http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/0909/092554324/detail.shtml |title= ЦАМТО / Новости / "Авиастар-СП" продлил ресурс летной годности очередному самолету Ан-124-100 "Руслан" |access-date= 10 September 2019 |archive-date= 10 September 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190910180054/http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/0909/092554324/detail.shtml |url-status= live}}{{cite web |url= http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/1217/145555868/detail.shtml |title= ЦАМТО / Новости / Продлен ресурс летной годности очередного самолета Ан-124-100 "Руслан" |access-date= 8 January 2020 |archive-date= 21 December 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191221075056/http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2019/1217/145555868/detail.shtml |url-status= live}}
• 12th Military Transport Aviation Division
• 566th Military Transport Aviation Regiment – Seshcha air base, Bryansk Oblast{{cite web |url= http://www.ww2.dk/new/air%20force/regiment/tap/566vtap.htm|title= 566th Solnechnogorskiy Red Banner order of Kutuzov Military-Transport Aviation Regiment |website= ww2.dk |access-date= 14 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180604160333/http://www.ww2.dk/new/air%20force/regiment/tap/566vtap.htm |archive-date= 4 June 2018 |url-status= live}}
• 18th Military Transport Aviation Division{{cite web |url= https://bmpd.livejournal.com/2980287.html |title= В ВКС России восстановлена 18-я военно-транспортная авиационная дивизия |website= bmpd.livejournal.com |date= 1 December 2017 |access-date= 14 January 2019}}
• 235th Military Transport Aviation Regiment – Ulyanovsk Vostochny Airport, Ulyanovsk Oblast{{cite web |url= https://bmpd.livejournal.com/2984111.html |title= В Ульяновске восстановлен 235-й военно-транспортный авиационный полк |website= bmpd.livejournal.com |date= 3 December 2017 |access-date= 14 January 2019}}
• 224th Air Detachment of Military Transport Aviation – Migalovo, Tver Oblast

;{{USSR}}

• Soviet Air Force – aircraft were transferred to Russian and Ukrainian Air Forces after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

File:UR-82009 Antonov AN124.jpg

File:Antonov An-124-100 Ruslan, Volga-Dnepr Airlines AN1912164.jpg An-124-100]]

File:AN-124 (4136422564) (2).jpg at Long Beach Airport. Cargo: composite parts for Airbus A350 XWB.]]

As of late 2020, 20 An-124s were in commercial service.{{cite web |last= Villamizar |first= Helwing |date= 26 December 2021 |title= Today in Aviation: Maiden Flight of the Antonov An-124 |url= https://airwaysmag.com/today-in-aviation/maiden-flight-antonov-an-124/ |access-date= 28 February 2022 |website= Airways Magazine |language= en-US}}

; {{RUS}}

• Volga-Dnepr (12, with 3 on order){{cite web |url= https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/volga-dnepr-airlines-vi-vda |title= Fleet in Flight Radar |access-date= 24 September 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170925035239/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/volga-dnepr-airlines-vi-vda |archive-date= 25 September 2017 |url-status= live}}

; {{UKR}}

• Antonov Airlines (7){{cite web |url= https://thegoaspotlight.com/some-of-the-biggest-planes-in-the-world-were-in-kiev-at-the-time-of-the-invasion-see-what-they-are/ |title= Some of the biggest planes in the world were in Kiev at the time of the invasion, see what they are |publisher= The Goa Spotlight |date = |access-date= 8 March 2022 |archive-date= 2 March 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220302060256/https://thegoaspotlight.com/some-of-the-biggest-planes-in-the-world-were-in-kiev-at-the-time-of-the-invasion-see-what-they-are/ |url-status= dead}}

File:Maximus Air Cargo Antonov An-124-100 Vanzura.jpg at Brno–Tuřany Airport]]

;{{UAE}}

• Maximus Air Cargo (1), An-124-100 variant built in 2003

;{{flag|Libya|2011}}

• Libyan Arab Air Cargo – had 2 aircraft in service as of 2013; 1 seized by Ukraine in 2017,{{cite web |url= https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/454747.html |title= Ukraine to auction Libya's An-124 Ruslan if Libya fails to pay $1.2 million of debt for aircraft servicing |website= en.interfax.com.ua |date= 13 October 2017 |access-date= 23 June 2019 |archive-date= 23 June 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190623182006/https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/454747.html |url-status= live}} and 1 destroyed on ground by shelling at Mitiga International Airport in June 2019.{{cite web |url= https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20190529-0 |title= 5A-DKN hull-loss incident |publisher= Aviation Safety Network |access-date = 16 September 2020}}

;{{RUS}}

• Aeroflot Russian International Airlines – retired from fleet in 2000
• Ayaks Cargo (Ayaks Polet Airlines)
• Polet Flight – ceased operations 2014
• Rossiya Airlines – retired from fleet
• Transaero Airlines – retired from fleet
• Titan Cargo – company ceased operations 2002
• TransCharter Titan Cargo – ceased operations 2003

;{{USSR}}

• Aeroflot Soviet Airlines – transferred to the Russian Aeroflot fleet

;{{UK}}

• Air Foyle (in partnership with Antonov Design Bureau) – joint venture dissolved 2006
• HeavyLift Cargo Airlines (in partnership with Volga-Dnepr Airlines) – ceased operations 2006

; {{UKR}}

• Antonov AirTrack – ceased operations

{{As of|2020|11}}, five accidents with An-124 hull losses have been recorded involving a total of 97 fatalities,{{cite web |title= ASN Aviation Safety Database: Antonov 124-100 |url= http://aviation-safety.net/database/dblist.php?field=typecode&var=04C%&cat=%1&sorteer=datekey&page=1 |website= Aviation Safety Network |access-date= 23 June 2016 |archive-date= 4 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160304085252/http://aviation-safety.net/database/dblist.php?field=typecode&var=04C%&cat=%1&sorteer=datekey&page=1 |url-status= live}} including:

• On 13 October 1992, CCCP-82002, operated by Antonov Airlines crashed near Kyiv, Ukraine during flight testing, suffering nose cargo door failure during high-speed descent (part of test program) resulting in total loss of control. The airplane came down in a forest near Kyiv, killing eight of the nine crew on board.{{cite web |title= Accident Description, Anotonov 124-100, Tuesday 13 October 1992 |url= http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19921013-1 |website= Aviation Safety Network |access-date= 14 August 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101015010602/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19921013-1 |archive-date= 15 October 2010 |url-status= live}}
• On 15 November 1993, RA-82071, operated by Aviastar Airlines crashed into a mountain at {{convert|11000|ft|m}} while in a holding pattern at Kerman, Iran. There were 17 fatalities.{{cite web |title= Accident Description, Antonov 124-100, Monday 15 November 1993 |url= http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19931115-0|website= Aviation Safety Network |access-date= 14 August 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120118083621/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19931115-0 |archive-date= 18 January 2012 |url-status= live}}
• On 8 October 1996, RA-82069, owned by Aeroflot but operated by Ajax Cargo, Operating as Aeroflot Flight 9981. crashed at San Francesco al Campo, Italy, while initiating a go-around after a low visibility approach on Turin Caselle airport's runway 36. There were four fatalities.{{cite web |title= Accident Description, Antonov 124-100, Tuesday 8 October 1996 |url= http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19961008-0 |website= Aviation Safety Network |access-date= 22 April 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110607073249/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19961008-0 |archive-date= 7 June 2011 |url-status= live}}
• On 6 December 1997, RA-82005, operated by the Russian Air Force, crashed in a residential area after take-off in Irkutsk, Russia. All 23 people on board and 49 people on the ground were killed.{{cite news|last1= Velovich|first1= Alexander|title= Multiple engine failure blamed for An-124 Irkutsk accident|url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/multiple-engine-failure-blamed-for-an-124-irkutsk-ac-30764/|access-date= 2 December 2010|publisher= Flightglobal|date= 17 December 1997|location= Moscow, Russia |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161129024011/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/multiple-engine-failure-blamed-for-an-124-irkutsk-ac-30764/|archive-date= 29 November 2016|url-status= live}}
• On 13 November 2020, the second engine of RA-82042, operated by Volga-Dnepr Airlines, suffered an uncontained engine failure after takeoff from Novosibirsk, Russia. Subsequently, after landing there, the aircraft suffered a runway excursion and the nose landing gear collapsed.{{cite web|title= Accident Description, Anotonov 124-100, Friday 13 November 2020|url= https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20201113-0|website= Aviation Safety Network|access-date= 13 November 2020}} On 25 November, the airline voluntarily grounded its entire fleet of An-124 aircraft.{{cite web |url= https://airwaysmag.com/airlines/volga-dnepr-grounds-antonov-an-124-fleet-indefinitely/ |title= Volga-Dnepr Grounds Antonov An-124 Fleet Indefinitely |first= James |last= Field |publisher= Airways Magazine |date= 25 November 2020 |access-date= 26 November 2020 |archive-date= 25 November 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201125191300/https://airwaysmag.com/airlines/volga-dnepr-grounds-antonov-an-124-fleet-indefinitely/ |url-status= dead}} By 29 December, the first Volga-Dnepr An-124-100 was back in service.{{cite web |url= https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/first-volga-dnepr-an-124-back-in-the-air/ |title= First Volga-Dnepr AN-124 back in the air |first= Damian |last= Brett |publisher= Aircargo News |date= 30 December 2020 |access-date= 10 January 2021}}

File:Antonov An-124 3-view.svg

File:An-124 PL-R.svg diagram]]

{{Aircraft specs

| ref = Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2006-07,Jackson 2005, pp. 569–571. Volga-Dnepr{{Cite web |work= Volga-Dnepr |title= An-124 Specs |url= https://www.volga-dnepr.com/files/booklet/an-124e_final.pdf}}

| prime units? = met

| crew = Eight (pilot, copilot, navigator, chief flight engineer, electrical flight engineer, radio operator, two loadmasters)

| capacity = 88 passengers in upper aft fuselage, or the hold can take an additional 350 pax on a palletised seating system / {{cvt|120000|kg|0}}

| length m = 69.1

| length note =

| span m = 73.3

| span note =

| height m = 21.08

| height note =

| wing area sqm = 628

| wing area note =

| aspect ratio = 8.6

| airfoil = TsAGI Supercritical{{cite web |last1= Lednicer |first1= David |title= The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url= https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website= m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date= 16 April 2019 |archive-date= 26 March 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190326174850/https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |url-status= live}}

| empty weight kg = 181,000

| empty weight note =

| gross weight kg =

| gross weight note =

| max takeoff weight kg = 402,000

| max takeoff weight note = * Maximum landing weight: {{cvt|330000|kg|0}}

| fuel capacity = 210,172 kg 463,343 lb {{cvt|262715.15|L|USgal impgal}}

| more general =

| eng1 number = 4

| eng1 name = Progress D-18T (D-18 Series 4 on -150 models)

| eng1 type = high-bypass turbofan engines

| eng1 kn = 226.8

| eng1 note =

| max speed kmh =

| max speed note =

| cruise speed kmh = 865

| cruise speed note = max

:::{{cvt|800|-|850|km/h|mph kn}} at FL 328-394 ({{cvt|32800|-|39400|ft|0}} at regional pressure setting)

• Approach speed: {{cvt|230|-|260|km/h|mph kn}}

| stall speed kmh =

| stall speed note =

| never exceed speed kmh =

| never exceed speed note =

| minimum control speed kmh =

| minimum control speed note =

| range km = 3,700

| range note = with max payload

::::{{cvt|8400|km|mi nmi}} with {{cvt|80000|kg|0}} payload

::::{{cvt|11500|km|mi nmi}} with {{cvt|40000|kg|0}} payload

| combat range km =

| combat range note =

| ferry range km = 14,000

| ferry range note = with max fuel and minimum payload

| endurance =

| ceiling m = 12,000

| ceiling note = max certified altitude

| g limits =

| roll rate =

| climb rate ms =

| climb rate note =

| time to altitude =

| wing loading kg/m2 = 640.1

| wing loading note =

| fuel consumption kg/km =

| thrust/weight = 0.23

| more performance = * Take-off run (maximum take-off weight): {{convert|3000|m|ft|abbr=on}}

• Landing roll (maximum landing weight): {{convert|900|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| avionics =

}}

{{Portal|Aviation|Soviet Union|Russia|Ukraine}}

{{aircontent

|seealso=

|related=

• Antonov An-225 Mriya

|similar aircraft=

• Airbus Beluga
• Boeing 747-400F
• Boeing 747-8F
• Boeing C-17 Globemaster III
• Lockheed C-5 Galaxy
• Ilyushin PAK VTA

|lists=

}}

{{reflist}}

• {{cite magazine |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=5eMDAAAAMBAJ&dq=Antonov+An-225+Mriya&pg=RA1-PA58 |title= Heavy Lifters |publisher= Hearst Magazines |magazine= Popular Mechanics |first= John |last= Fricker |date= February 1990 |volume= 167 |number= 2 |issn= 0032-4558}}
• {{cite book |title= Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2006-07 |editor1-last= Jackson |editor1-first= Paul|year= 2005 |publisher= Jane's Publishing Group |location= London |isbn= 978-0-7106-2745-2 |edition= 97th |url=https://archive.org/details/janesallworldsai0000unse_y3n5/page/569 |url-access=registration |oclc=70112997}}

• {{cite book |last= Yeltsov |first= Gennady |title= Antonov AN-124: A Tale of Air Supremacy |publisher= JustplanesUK |year= 2011 |isbn= 978-0-9569328-0-8}}

{{external media

|float=right

|video1 =[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8K3s7Rgxu8&feature=player_embedded Company documentary video]

}}

{{Commons category-inline}}

• {{Official website|http://timetravel.mementoweb.org/memento/2011/http://www.antonov.com/aircraft/transport-aircraft/an-124-100-ruslan}}

{{Antonov aircraft}}

{{Authority control}}

An-124

Category:1980s Soviet cargo aircraft

Category:1980s Soviet military transport aircraft

Category:Quadjets

Category:High-wing aircraft

Category:Aircraft first flown in 1982

Category:Double-deck aircraft