An-225 Cossack   Global Aircraft -- An-225 Cossack Webmaster's Notes The An-225 Cossack holds the current world record for the largest aircraft in the world, yet has never gone into full production and probably never will. The An-225 is a six-engine development of the An-124 designed to carry the Soviet 'Buran' space shuttle on its back. A new central wing section with two more engines was inserted, twin tail fins were fitted, the landing gear was reinforced and dorsal attachment points were added. The Buran program was abandoned, and the An-225 has been grounded. The first An-225 prototype flew on 21 December 1988. An-225 Specifications Manufacturer: Antonov Weight (tons): 250,5tons Max. Takeoff Weight 600,000kg Max Payload 250 tons cargo Max Speed (km/h): 850km/h Cruise speed 700kph range w/max.fuel: 15400km range w/max.payload: 4500km M./Engine: 6 * 229.5kN Lotarev turbofans D-18T engines, 6 x 23'370 kgs Dimensions (m): (wingspan)88.4m x (length)84.0m x (height)18.2m Wing area 905.0m2 Carbin: 4.4mx6.4mx43m Man./Crew: 6 Alt. (m): 11,000m Design The first prototype flew on Dec, 21. 1988. Entered production in 1989.