Antonov Seeking Partners to Launch Mass Production of Giant Airplane

Ukrainian state aircraft producer Antonov is considering the launch of serial production of the world’s largest cargo aircraft the An-225 ‘Mriya’, as Deputy CEO Oleksandr Kotsiuba noted in an interview to Liga.Business.

"According to a conservative estimate, the launch of serial production of this aircraft would cost $3-4 billion. The lion’s share is pre-production, production tooling, procurement of equipment, certification and issue of design documentation," informed Mr. Kotsiuba. He says that Chinese investors are demonstrating interest in cooperation: "They can afford this investment, but so far it has gone no further than mere discussion."

"Mriya is worth interest not just as a unique commercial carrier. Indeed, it can also grace the public image of any country. However, the price is too high for a single private company. We see it as an international project," Mr. Kotsiuba explained.

He confirmed the capacity to construct a second aircraft, as everything — the fuselage, wings, empennage — is available to produce the airframe. However, a good deal of money is necessary for modernization. "We will keep the same aircraft exterior, but the technology and engineering will be brand new, including up-to-date equipment and engines," Mr. Kotsiuba pointed out.

The An-225 ‘Mriya’ is the world’s only aircraft to carry 169 tons of mixed cargo. One Mriya aircraft can carry as much cargo as two An-124-100 ‘Ruslan’ planes , significantly reducing transportation costs.

Source: Ukrayinska Pravda